More than 50% of Zimbabwean population is represented by young women though they are not actively participating in national politics.
During the Episode of Identities Umhlobo one young woman Vongai Zimudza said young women were not participating in politics and this has caused their marginalization.
Zimudza said as young women it was crucial for them to participate in politics in order to have a voice regarding issues that affect them. According to research, most young women suffered from various forms of abuse because nobody represented them and if they participate and get elected into influential positions, they were likely to challenge all sorts of violence and abuses they face.
She said since young women constituted 67 % of the total population they should have at least 25% representation in politics to ensure continuity in politics for women.
“Young women are just as much a part of the future as everyone else, and we have just as much of a right to be in control of our lives. Our voices matter, but our parliament at the moment does not reflect this as much as it should,’’ said Karen Mukwasi speaking during the show.
Institute of Young Women Development Network Director Glanis Changachirere said that young women were not engaging in politics because of the violence that has been associated with the game of politics in Zimbabwe. For example during the recent elections Thokozani Khupe and Linda Masarira were attacked and labeled prostitutes by MDC Alliance supporters during a leadership wrangle. In addition Changachirere noted that it was critical to eliminate the unnecessary scrutiny that goes around women when they run for political office.
It is interesting to note that young women’s leadership in political decision making process improves them. Research shows that women demonstrate political leadership qualities by working across party lines thereby promoting national development.
According to Global Young Voice, young women who participate in national politics from an early stage are more likely to become engaged citizens and voters.
According to Jemeson [2002] developing leadership capacity of girls in politics not only helps them to secure better livelihoods and better health today, but can also create a generation capable of delivering future change. Thus it is crucial for young women to participate in politics as they can promote development through better decision making.
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