ZCIEA and ZYFM Launch Anti-Sexual Harassment Campaign in Informal Sector

Zimbabwe Chambers of Informal Economy Associations (ZCIEA) in partnership with Zimbabwe Young Feminists Movement (ZYFM) launch anti-sexual harassment campaign in the informal sector

Zimbabwe Chambers of Informal Economy Associations (ZCIEA) in partnership with Zimbabwe Young Feminists Movement (ZYFM) launched anti-sexual harassment in the informal sector campaign from 28 to 30 November as a way of taking part in a global campaign of 16 days of Activism against gender-based violence.

Speaking during the third day launch at National Art Gallery, ZCIEA Secretary General, Wisborn Malaya said that sexual harassment in the informal sector cannot continue to be ignored.

“We are campaigning against sexual harassment in the informal sector as we know 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence started since 25 November to mid December,” said Malaya.

He added that the campaign against all kinds of gender-based violence should not end there as it must be normalised.

Panelists who were tackling on the topic dismantling stereotypes on sexual harassment in the informal sector acknowledged that stereotypes are there in the informal sector and there is need for education of men.

Feminist Conversations

In dismantling stereotypes, Zimbabwe Young Feminists Movement representative, Sikhangele Moyo suggested women having conversations with men as a way of enlightening them about what sexual harassment really is.

“It’s unfortunate we have few men at this space although they are our target. Maybe they don’t know what harassment is and maybe they gotten away with sexual harassment for decades to an extent of feeling it’s normal and they don’t see any wrong in it,” said Moyo.

She added, “Women here I think it’s important for us to go back home and have this conversation with our male counterparts, kids, neighbours and anyone who is within your circle.”

Moyo further explained that it is important for men to have these conversations so that they know how it affects us as women and girls.

Feeling Unsafe

Many informal traders who were present revealed that they feel unsafe both at workplaces and home as they are harassed.

An unidentified informal traders revealed that street kids around 15th Avenue harass and forcefully take away their belongings when they are coming back home from workplaces.

She said, “We are finding it difficult to walk along 15th Avenue as street kids are harassing us and taking away our belongings. They do everything they want with you as law enforcement seem to ignore them for a long time.”