Will gender equality lose its dedicated watchdog?

The future of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) hangs in the balance following proposals in the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill (No.3) of 2026 to abolish the Commission and transfer its functions to the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC). Clause 17 of the Bill seeks to repeal Part 4 of Chapter 12 of the Constitution, which establishes the ZGC, arguing that its functions can be subsumed under the ZHRC “since the latter is already mandated to protect all human rights.” Clause 18 proposes inserting the ZGC’s functions into the ZHRC framework. The move has sparked debate, particularly as the ZGC’s 2024 Annual Report, now finalised and submitted in Parliament, highlights what lawmakers describe as tangible progress despite chronic underfunding.

Established under Section 246 of the Constitution and operationalised by the Zimbabwe Gender Commission Act, the ZGC’s mandate includes monitoring gender equality, investigating violations, receiving public complaints, conducting research, advising institutions and recommending prosecution in cases involving gender rights abuses. In compliance with Section 323 of the Constitution, the ZGC has consistently submitted annual reports to Parliament since 2016, reflecting what it describes as “commitment to transparency, accountability and constitutional compliance.” Central to its 2024 performance was the handling of complaints and investigations into gender-based violations in accordance with Section 246(b) and (c) of the Constitution. Key investigations included cases of gender-based discrimination at National Handling Services, Chivhu School of Nursing and Bata Shoe Company.

The Commission also conducted targeted research in border towns, exposing harassment and extortion of women cross-border traders by officials. It rolled out 15 Mobile One Stop Centres across three provinces, reaching 2 308 survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) with integrated services. Under its oversight mandate, the ZGC conducted a gender audit of political parties represented in Parliament, recommending the development of internal gender policies.