By Chipo Gudhe
The Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) Zimbabwe has called for urgent action to address water challenges affecting women and girls, urging authorities to prioritise sustainable and inclusive water solutions.
Speaking during the recent World Water Day commemorations held at Bonacodd Grounds in Redcliff, WILPF Zimbabwe Programmes Officer Tinotenda Chigwa said access to clean water remains a critical issue that disproportionately affects women.
“Today we come together to mark International Women’s Day and World Water Day. These are two important days that remind us that women’s rights and access to water go hand in hand,” said Chigwa.
He said women in many communities continue to shoulder the burden of fetching water, often walking long distances, a situation that impacts their health, time and economic opportunities.
“Women, we see your strength, we see your resilience. Most of you walk long distances just to fetch water for your families. This is not just a daily task, but it’s a burden, a burden that affects your time, your health and even your opportunities,” he said.
Chigwa emphasised that improving access to safe and clean water has far-reaching social benefits, particularly for girls and families.
“Water is life. Water is unity. Whenever women get access to safe and clean water, girls can stay in school, families become healthier and communities become stronger,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to adopt long-term solutions and ensure that women are actively involved in decision-making processes related to water management.
“Today we come with a call for action. Let’s have sustainable water solutions and we need women to be included in each and every decision about water in our community,” he said.
Chigwa also highlighted that World Water Day is commemorated annually on March 22, calling for inclusive access to water resources.
“In solidarity, no woman should be left behind. Water for all,” he said.
The commemorations brought together community members and stakeholders to reflect on the intersection between gender equality and access to basic services, amid growing concerns over water shortages in parts of the district.
