The Cultural Centre of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Zimbabwe joined women advocacy and representative organizations in calling for the total eradication of gender-based violence in the world.

During commemorations to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence that were held in Harare and supported by the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Iran, some representatives of women’s organizations called for an end to all forms of gender-based violence in society.

The commemorations were organized by Fatima Zahra Women’s Organization and hosted by the United Nations Information Centre in Zimbabwe. The Guest of Honour and Cultural Counsellor at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr. Hamid Bakhtiyar, expressed sadness at the mass killing of women and children in Palestine by Israel. He said the Israeli regime has so far killed about 14,000 people (during the 47 days of war), with 70 percent of them being women and children.

He castigated some western governments who practise double standards by claiming to be the promoters of human rights yet they are failing to reign in Israel from further killing innocent women and children in Palestine,

Mrs. Tafadzwa Mwale, the head of the United Nations Information Centre noted that the 16 days off Activism Against Gender based Violence is a platform in which women come together to tackle this global vice that has torn families and societies apart.

Mrs. Sarah Murera, a programme specialist On Ending Violence Against Women at the United Nations in Zimbabwe urged women to unite order to end gender-based violence in society as well as for society to abhor this vice that has destroyed families.

Mrs. Hajar Makwinja, the Director of Fatima Zahra (a.s) Women’s Organization who spoke on the power of solidarity, noted that solidarity in gender-based violence is crucial in creating a society that is free from violence and discrimination, where people will live with all the dignity and accorded the respect they deserve.

Ms. Kudzai Magaya from S.H.E. Catalyst Foundation said women and children’s rights should be protected and respected. She said children suffer the consequences of gender-based violence in families and communities.

Mrs. Gurupira from the United Methodist Church in Zimbabwe said men and women should be accorded equal opportunities in the economic, social and political spheres of nations. She decried the incidence of gender-based discrimination amongst various families and the society at large.