Womens Monitor Magazine Zimbabwe

04/04/2025

**Title: A Growing Crisis: Analyzing Intergenerational Relationships in Southern Africa**

As Southern Africa grapples with various socio-economic challenges, a concerning trend has emerged—intergenerational sexual relationships involving young girls as young as 12 and older men ranging in age from 20 to 60. This issue is particularly acute in countries such as Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, where cultural, economic, and systemic factors create an environment ripe for exploitation.

# # # Understanding the Issue

Reports indicate that many young girls engage in these relationships out of necessity, often driven by poverty and limited opportunities. According to **UNICEF**, “The power dynamics inherent in these relationships put girls at significant risk of exploitation, abuse, and exposure to sexually transmitted infections.” With approximately **35% of girls in sub-Saharan Africa marrying before the age of 18**, the urgency of addressing this issue becomes even more critical.

In Malawi, reports suggest that intergenerational relationships are fueled by a combination of poverty and the desperate need for financial security. The **Malawi Human Rights Commission** highlighted that "economic instability often forces families to make difficult decisions, pushing young girls into these relationships for basic survival.”

# # # The Impact on Health and Rights

The health implications of these relationships can be devastating. **UN Women** noted, “Young girls involved in intergenerational relationships face increased risks of unintended pregnancies, STIs, and mental health issues.” In Zimbabwe, where over 25% of girls aged 15-19 have experienced sexual violence, the need for comprehensive health services and education is paramount to reverse these trends.

Faith-based organizations, such as **The World Council of Churches**, are also raising their voices against this crisis. They emphasize the importance of community dialogue, stating, “Faith leaders play a crucial role in transforming attitudes and behaviors that contribute to the acceptance of intergenerational relationships.”

# # # Government and NGO Response

Responding to this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach, incorporating efforts from governments, NGOs, and international donors:

1. **Policy Frameworks**: Governments must strengthen laws protecting minors from exploitation. In Mozambique, the government has made strides by implementing policies aimed at reducing child marriage, but enforcement remains a challenge.

2. **Education and Empowerment**: Organizations like **Plan International** are working to provide educational materials and training for both young girls and community members. They assert that “Empowerment through education can break the cycle of poverty and reduce vulnerability to exploitation.”

3. **Community Engagement**: Faith-based groups are organizing community dialogues aimed at changing cultural norms that perpetuate intergenerational relationships. **The Zimbabwe Council of Churches** emphasized, "Transformative dialogue is essential to shift perceptions and protect vulnerable youth."

4. **Health Services Access**: Initiatives led by **UNFPA** are crucial in ensuring that young women have access to sexual and reproductive health services. They state, “Access to education on reproductive health is vital for empowering young girls and steering them away from harmful relationships.”

# # # The Role of First Ladies and Donors

First ladies in the region are increasingly stepping up to address these issues. For example, **First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe** has launched campaigns focused on health and empowerment for young girls, aiming to create awareness about the risks associated with intergenerational relationships.

International donors also play a critical role. The **Global Fund** and other philanthropic organizations have begun investing in programs designed to elevate the status of young women and improve their socio-economic conditions.

# # # Conclusion

As the phenomenon of intergenerational relationships continues to spread across Southern Africa, it is imperative that we unite in our efforts to combat this crisis. By addressing the root causes of poverty and gender inequality while providing education, health services, and community support, we can create a safer environment for young girls. The collective action of governments, NGOs, faith-based organizations, and individuals is necessary to foster a future where every girl can thrive free from exploitation.

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11/02/2025

Title: Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Health in Mt. Darwin: A Call for Action

In the serene landscapes of Mt. Darwin, Zimbabwe, a silent struggle plays out monthly for countless girls—one that is often overshadowed by the noise of daily life. The challenges of period poverty and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can significantly disrupt the lives of rural residing girls, rendering them vulnerable and marginalized. With an estimated 1.8 billion women menstruating globally each month, it is vital to confront the realities that many young girls face, particularly in rural communities like Mt. Darwin.

Period poverty, defined as the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and hygiene facilities, is a critical issue impacting girls' education and overall well-being. And the emotional component—PMS—adds another layer of complexity, affecting girls’ physical health, mental well-being, and their ability to attend school without discomfort and stigma. The World Economic Forum recently spotlighted PMS, placing it alongside serious health conditions like Ischemic Heart Disease and Cervical Cancer. This recognition underscores an urgent need to address these often-ignored issues.

Conditional on cultural stigmas and economic limitations, many girls in Mt. Darwin may find themselves missing out on educational opportunities, leading to a vicious cycle of poverty and dependency. The implications of education absenteeism due to menstrual challenges not only impact their futures but resonate through generations, affecting women’s roles in society and their own children's educational prospects.

However, change is possible, and it begins with a collective effort from the government, NGOs, donors, corporate entities, and individuals to ensure that menstrual health is prioritized. Governments must develop sustainable policies that provide free menstrual hygiene products in schools as well as necessary education on menstrual health. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as CARE and PLAN International have been integral in implementing programs that tackle these issues, along with Musasa, which emphasizes comprehensive health services for women.

Furthermore, the involvement of men and boys in breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation is critical. Just like in Stephen King's iconic novel "Carrie," where the struggles of young women around menstrual issues are horrifically portrayed, we need narratives that educate rather than stigmatize. Education around menstruation should be included in school curriculums to normalize these discussions.

Remarkably, champions like Amai Mnangagwa are emerging to lead the charge for women’s sexual and reproductive health, education, and essential sanitation facilities (WASH). Her advocacy serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring a community to rally for menstrual health as a key component of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).

An inspiring example of action taking root in this struggle is Shamiso Yadyo, a remarkable young woman who has decided to make a tangible difference. Having learned at Kuhondo High School in Mt. Darwin, Shamiso is set to donate menstrual hygiene supplies to 600 girls at her former school through the Cedarwood Memorial Trust, where she is one of the founding trustees. This act not only addresses immediate needs but also aims to empower girls, fostering a supportive environment where they can focus on their education without the added burden of menstrual challenges.

In conclusion, the time to act is now. We must all play our part in dismantling the barriers that prevent young girls from thriving during their menstrual cycles. A coordinated effort across all sectors of society can provide the necessary resources, education, and destigmatization needed to ensure that no girl in Mt. Darwin—or anywhere else—falls behind due to period poverty or PMS. The journey toward menstrual equity is a shared responsibility, one that can provide lasting change not only for young women but for entire communities.
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also include this In Stephen King's Carrie, menstruation is a key event that triggers Carrie's telekinetic powers and leads to her transformation into a monster.
How does menstruation affect Carrie?

Carrie's first period happens in the shower, where her classmates bully her.

This event traumatizes Carrie and haunts her throughout the novel.
Carrie's period is a pivotal moment in her life, as she is caught between girlhood and womanhood.
Carrie's telekinetic powers begin to surface after her first period, and flare when she is angry or insulted.

Title: Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Health in Mt. Darwin: A Call for Action

In the serene landscapes of Mt. Darwin, Zimbabwe, a silent struggle plays out monthly for countless girls—one that is often overshadowed by the noise of daily life. The challenges of period poverty and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can significantly disrupt the lives of rural girls, rendering them vulnerable and marginalized. With an estimated 1.8 billion women menstruating globally each month, it is vital to confront the realities that many young girls face, particularly in rural communities like Mt. Darwin.

Period poverty, defined as the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and hygiene facilities, is a critical issue impacting girls' education and overall well-being. Coupled with the emotional toll of PMS, which can influence physical health and mental well-being, many girls endure considerable hardships that hinder their ability to attend school comfortably. The World Economic Forum recently spotlighted PMS alongside serious health conditions like Ischemic Heart Disease and Cervical Cancer, underscoring an urgent need to address these often-ignored issues.

Conditional on cultural stigmas and economic limitations, many girls in Mt. Darwin may find themselves missing out on educational opportunities, leading to a vicious cycle of poverty and dependency. The implications of education absenteeism due to menstrual challenges not only impact their futures but resonate through generations, affecting women’s roles in society and their own children's educational prospects.

Drawing a parallel to literature, in Stephen King's Carrie, menstruation serves as a key event that not only marks Carrie’s transition into womanhood but catalyzes her telekinetic powers. During her first period, experienced in the shower, Carrie faces cruel bullying from her classmates, a traumatic experience that haunts her throughout the novel. This pivotal moment symbolizes the anguish many girls feel when confronting bodily changes that are stigmatized and misunderstood. Carrie’s telekinetic powers, which flare in moments of anger or insult, reflect the intense emotional and psychological complexities that menstruation can evoke—transformative yet frightening, liberating yet stigmatized.

However, change is possible, and it begins with collective action from the government, NGOs, donors, corporate entities, and individuals to ensure that menstrual health is prioritized. Governments must develop sustainable policies that provide free menstrual hygiene products in schools as well as necessary education on menstrual health. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as CARE and PLAN International have been integral in implementing programs that tackle these issues, alongside Musasa, which emphasizes comprehensive health services for women.

Moreover, the involvement of men and boys in breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation is critical. Just like in Carrie, where societal bullying exacerbates Carrie’s already burdensome emotional experience, we need to educate boys and men to understand and support their peers. Education around menstruation should be included in school curriculums to normalize these discussions, ensuring that young girls do not feel isolated or ashamed.

Remarkably, champions like Amai Mnangagwa are emerging to lead the charge for women’s sexual and reproductive health, education, and essential sanitation facilities (WASH). Her advocacy serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring a community to rally for menstrual health as a key component of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).

An inspiring example of action taking root in this struggle is Shamiso Yadyo, a remarkable young woman who has decided to make a tangible difference. Having learned at Kuhondo High School in Mt. Darwin, Shamiso is set to donate menstrual hygiene supplies to 600 girls at her former school through the Cedarwood Memorial Trust, where she is one of the founding trustees. This act not only addresses immediate needs but also aims to empower girls, fostering a supportive environment where they can focus on their education without the added burden of menstrual challenges.

In conclusion, the time to act is now. We must all play our part in dismantling the barriers that prevent young girls from thriving during their menstrual cycles. A coordinated effort across all sectors of society can provide the necessary resources, education, and destigmatization needed to ensure that no girl in Mt. Darwin—or anywhere else—falls behind due to period poverty or PMS. The journey toward menstrual equity is a shared responsibility, one that can provide lasting change not only for young women but for entire communities.
add quotes from influential people like hellen keller and Nelson Mandela on women's empoerwement

Title: Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Health in Mt. Darwin: A Call for Action

In the serene landscapes of Mt. Darwin, Zimbabwe, a silent struggle plays out monthly for countless girls—one that is often overshadowed by the noise of daily life. The challenges of period poverty and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can significantly disrupt the lives of rural girls, rendering them vulnerable and marginalized. With an estimated 1.8 billion women menstruating globally each month, it is vital to confront the realities that many young girls face, particularly in rural communities like Mt. Darwin.

Period poverty, defined as the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and hygiene facilities, is a critical issue impacting girls' education and overall well-being. Coupled with the emotional toll of PMS, which can influence physical health and mental well-being, many girls endure considerable hardships that hinder their ability to attend school comfortably. The World Economic Forum recently spotlighted PMS alongside serious health conditions like Ischemic Heart Disease and Cervical Cancer, underscoring an urgent need to address these often-ignored issues.

Conditional on cultural stigmas and economic limitations, many girls in Mt. Darwin may find themselves missing out on educational opportunities, leading to a vicious cycle of poverty and dependency. The implications of education absenteeism due to menstrual challenges not only impact their futures but resonate through generations, affecting women’s roles in society and their own children's educational prospects.

Drawing a parallel to literature, in Stephen King's Carrie, menstruation serves as a key event that not only marks Carrie’s transition into womanhood but catalyzes her telekinetic powers. During her first period, experienced in the shower, Carrie faces cruel bullying from her classmates, a traumatic experience that haunts her throughout the novel. This pivotal moment symbolizes the anguish many girls feel when confronting bodily changes that are stigmatized and misunderstood. Carrie’s telekinetic powers, which flare in moments of anger or insult, reflect the intense emotional and psychological complexities that menstruation can evoke—transformative yet frightening, liberating yet stigmatized.

However, change is possible, and it begins with collective action from the government, NGOs, donors, corporate entities, and individuals to ensure that menstrual health is prioritized. Governments must develop sustainable policies that provide free menstrual hygiene products in schools as well as necessary education on menstrual health. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as CARE and PLAN International have been integral in implementing programs that tackle these issues, alongside Musasa, which emphasizes comprehensive health services for women.

Moreover, the involvement of men and boys in breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation is critical. Just like in Carrie, where societal bullying exacerbates Carrie’s already burdensome emotional experience, we need to educate boys and men to understand and support their peers. Education around menstruation should be included in school curriculums to normalize these discussions, ensuring that young girls do not feel isolated or ashamed.

As Helen Keller famously stated, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This sentiment underscores the importance of community action in tackling period poverty and empowering young girls. Similarly, Nelson Mandela emphasized the importance of women in society when he said, “There is no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way in which it treats its children.” By ensuring that girls have access to menstrual hygiene products and education, we reflect the values of compassion, resilience, and respect that are essential for a progressive society.

Remarkably, champions like Amai Mnangagwa are emerging to lead the charge for women’s sexual and reproductive health, education, and essential sanitation facilities (WASH). Her advocacy serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring a community to rally for menstrual health as a key component of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).

An inspiring example of action taking root in this struggle is Shamiso Yadyo, a remarkable young woman who has decided to make a tangible difference. Having learned at Kuhondo High School in Mt. Darwin, Shamiso is set to donate menstrual hygiene supplies to 600 girls at her former school through the Cedarwood Memorial Trust, where she is one of the founding trustees. This act not only addresses immediate needs but also aims to empower girls, fostering a supportive environment where they can focus on their education without the added burden of menstrual challenges.

In conclusion, the time to act is now. We must all play our part in dismantling the barriers that prevent young girls from thriving during their menstrual cycles. A coordinated effort across all sectors of society can provide the necessary resources, education, and destigmatization needed to ensure that no girl in Mt. Darwin—or anywhere else—falls behind due to period poverty or PMS. The journey toward menstrual equity is a shared responsibility, one that can provide lasting change not only for young women but for entire communities. By creating a world where menstruation is not a source of shame but a natural part of life, we build a future where every girl can dream big and realize her full potential.

11/02/2025

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgyrxz4k6zo

As M23 rebels entered Goma and the city was plunged into chaos, female prisoners were attacked, the UN says.

04/02/2025

https://spikedmedia.co.zw/period-poverty-a-major-barrier-to-education-for-girls-in-rural-zimbabwe/

Zimbabwe news , with spiked catch all breaking news on 24news online media newsday newsdzezimbabwe every hour for free

02/04/2024

13/03/2024

Doctrine denies women their liberty
By E.M. Kuyipa

Recently, I attended a church gathering in which the preachers attacked women’s use of make-up, braiding, skin-lighteners and use of family planning methods. They also said that believers should notgo to hospital when ill.

The pastors wearing white dust coats, spoke mainly on these issues for more than an hour, quoting verses mainly from Paul’s letters in the Bible.

The congregants were mostly people who had been invited from the neighbourhood. The service was at a house in Stoneridge, Harare South. Thus, the pastors were not preaching to the converted. In fact, most of the women wear adorned in a way that the pastors were condemning.

One man, Mike, said, ‘How can they say that our women should not use contraceptives, such as Jadelle. If my wife ends up with a lot of children then how are we going to support them. I don’t like this doctrine.’

Other ladies also said that in an advanced society women should be at liberty to use cosmetics and have various forms of hairstyle. They also lamented the fact that there are a number of churches that have doctrines which oppress women, even to the point of causing maternal and infant deaths.

‘Women and girls as young as 14, have died at shrines giving births, because church elders refuse to allow them to get maternity services at hospitals,’ lamented Sister Dorcas, a state registered nurse.

Sandra, a School of Mortuary Sciences student, narrated that they had to forcefully take their sister to a hospital, where she got Antiretroviral Treatment (ART), after she became very ill. Her sister is one of twelve wives, married to a member of a white garment apostolic sect church, which does not allow its members to get medical treatment. She is the only one in the polygamous relationship who is on ART.

Another student Judith had recently attended a funeral for a cousin who died of Child-birth related causes after her husband refused on religious grounds to send her to hospital despite her pleas.

The death of a fourteen-year-old child bride whilst giving birth at a shrine in Marange Manicaland and the complicity of her parents in trying to cover up the incidence led to an outcry by Civic Society and the United Nations representatives in Zimbabwe.
If no woman must die whilst giving birth, then what about teenage girls?
Young children have not been spared. They are dying of preventable diseases because they have not been immunized. Leaders of wayward apostolic sects deny them vaccination.

‘Church doctrine should safeguard lives and ensure that there is no deliberate segregation, exploitation, or abuse of women or children. Faith based organisations, should make sure that they protect expecting mothers from maternal mortality and children from dying due to preventable communicable diseases,’ said a New Way Zion Church pastor.