Ministry Stresses Youth Involvement in Disaster Risk Reduction
Written by Staff Reporter on May 29, 2025
The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development has underscored the critical role of youth, particularly young women, in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) initiatives.
Addressing delegates at the 2nd Zimbabwe Youth Symposium on DRR in Harare, the Chief Director of the Gender Department, Mrs. Lillian Matsika Takaendisa, noted that due to socially assigned roles, young women and girls often serve as first responders during disasters.
She emphasized that the National Gender Policy currently under review recognizes DRR as a key pillar, with deliberate efforts to ensure the participation and empowerment of young women.
Mrs. Takaendisa also revealed that Zimbabwe is contributing to the Global Gender Action Plan on Climate Change, which identifies Disaster Risk Reduction as a strategic priority.
The symposium is running under the theme: “Innovative and Inclusive Solutions for Youth-Led DRR in Southern Africa.”
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