Women lead the charge in Gukurahundi hearings

Women are taking centre stage in the ongoing Gukurahundi Hearings, demonstrating their vital role in post-conflict healing and reconciliation.

Statistics from Zimpapers as of 3 September 2025 show that out of all submissions received, 5,412 (59.97%) were from women, compared to 3,613 from men (40.03%). This strong female participation reflects both trust in the process and their crucial role in rebuilding communities affected by past conflicts.

Attorney-General Virginia Mabiza, who heads the Matabeleland Peace-building Outreach Programme Secretariat, highlighted measures implemented to cater to the unique needs of women participants. "Safe spaces have been created for women to share their experiences confidentially, with psychosocial support and counselling provided by trained members of the chiefs' panel," Mabiza said.

National Chiefs Council president, Chief Mtshane Khumalo, emphasised the cultural significance of women in the reconciliation process. "Women carry the deepest wounds and have the greatest desire for the truth to be told and healing to begin. In our tradition, women are the holders of the family's memory and the keepers of its pain," he said.

The hearings have underscored the importance of gender inclusion in peace-building, with studies showing that agreements with women signatories have higher implementation rates and tend to last longer. By actively participating, women are ensuring that reconciliation addresses not only historical grievances but also the multifaceted impacts of conflict, including loss of family, community disruption, and economic hardship.

The hearings align with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's vision of nation-building, emphasising inclusivity and a united national identity. The strong female turnout signals both courage and collective commitment to addressing past injustices and fostering a more resilient society.

"The willingness of women to come forward is not just a personal act of courage but a collective one, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive national conversation," Mabiza added.

The Gukurahundi Hearings, therefore, are not merely a process of addressing a painful past; they exemplify how inclusive, community-driven reconciliation can set a new standard for peace-building in Zimbabwe, ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are central to the nation's journey towards unity and stability.