At a recent event celebrating Women’s Month, Engineer J.P. Makumbe, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, emphasized the crucial role of organizations in promoting diversity and inclusion.
In her address to the gathering at Cresta Lodge, Harare, Eng Makumbe stressed the importance of policies and initiatives that support women in leadership roles.
“Policies and initiatives that promote women’s advancement in leadership are crucial.
“Women are powerful agents of change, and their voices must be heard,” said Engineer Makumbe.
In addition she stressed the growing importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, and the need for more concerted efforts to achieve these goals.
“Together, we can create a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
“Through our collective efforts, we can create a more equitable world for all,” she said.
During her impassioned remarks, CMED Board Chairperson Dr. Engineer Tammy Stevenson highlighted the pressing need for women to advocate for one another, emphasizing the strength and impact that can be achieved through unity.
“We must support and advocate for each other, because our strength and impact is amplified when we work together,” said Dr. Eng Stevenson.
Furthermore, she emphasized the critical importance of challenging assumptions and promoting role models for future generations, underlining the need for women to come together in solidarity.
“It is imperative that we challenge outdated assumptions and promote role models for the next generation of women. We must stand together in solidarity, united in our fight for equality and justice,” she said.
Speaking at the same event, Ms. Lizwe Bunu, the Vice Chairperson for the Zimbabwe National Roads Administration (ZINARA), emphasized the invaluable strengths that women bring to organizations.
Ms. Bunu highlighted the significance of emotional intelligence and empathy, asserting that these qualities make women more assertive in organizational settings.
“Women are a tremendous asset to any organization. We bring unique skills and perspectives that make us invaluable contributors to any team.
“It’s not just about being strong and assertive. It’s about being emotionally intelligent and empathetic. These qualities make us more effective leaders and team members,” said Ms Bunu.
Engineer I.D. Michael of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development hailed the event as historic, marking the first of its kind under the Ministry’s leadership.
“This is a momentous occasion. For the first time, the Ministry is hosting an event to celebrate women’s achievements and showcase their talents,” she said.
Surprise guest speaker, Mr. Arthur Marara, encouraged women to focus on personal growth and moving out of their comfort zones.
He said that rewriting their stories and becoming a better version of themselves was crucial.
Mr Marara also emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and the impact they can have on society.
“Ladies, it’s time to focus on your personal growth and move out of your comfort zones. You need to rewrite your story and become a better version of yourself,” said Mr Marara.
Other panelists at the event included Dr. Afra Nhanhanga, Managing Director of the CAG; Sylvern Chisewe, Managing Director of Syven; and Captain Chipo Matimba, Air Zimbabwe pilot.
Women’s Month is dedicated to commemorate the social, cultural, and political achievements of women and also a time to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles and inequities that women still face.
Story by Jeremiah Gora
