Our Impact

Following the training of some members of the Senate and the National Assembly, Senators proceeded to raise the motion on safe abortion in the Senate on 5 March 2025 by Senator Chinyanya seconded by Senator Rungano. This motion was received with a lot of backlash and ridicule from other members, especially traditional members.

Intervention: Having observed the failure of the motion, the National Assembly members decided to form a Safe Abortion Caucus (SAC). This resolution by 15 MPs to form the SAC within the National Assembly is set to ensure that safe abortion motions are well prepared and moved in Parliament. This diverse coalition includes prominent figures such as: Hon. Biata Nyamupinga (ZANU PF), Chairperson of the SAC; Hon. Daniel Molekele (CCC), Vice Chairperson; Hon. E. Mushoriwa (CCC), Hon. M. Mbowa (ZANU PF), and Hon. Perservance Zhou (ZANU PF).

The SAC quickly initiated discussions with the Minister of Justice to advance the ToP reform agenda, signalling a serious commitment to legislative change.

Results: The formation of the Safe Abortion Caucus marks a significant milestone in the fight for reproductive rights in Zimbabwe. With a strong coalition of MPs from different political backgrounds, the SAC has begun to push for necessary reforms in the National Assembly. WLSA will continue to collaborate closely with the SAC to advocate for safe abortion legislation, providing technical assistance and support towards their legislative function, and ensuring that the voices of vulnerable populations are represented in the legislative process.

Intervention: Through WLSA's empowering workshops, 39 women from Mabvuku and Budiriro gained the confidence and knowledge needed to self-mobilize for action. With technical support from WLSA, they drafted a petition addressing critical issues impacting maternal health in their local clinics. On August 20, 2025, the women formally submitted this petition to the Mayor of Harare, demanding:

• Immediate prioritization of clean and potable water provision in local clinics.
• Improved, accessible and affordable maternal health services.
• Appropriate resource allocation in line with the 2025–2026 City of Harare health budget.

This initiative not only demonstrated the women's commitment to health advocacy but also highlighted their enhanced capacities and active participation in shaping health policies and financing that directly affect their lives.

Results: The successful submission of the petition marks a significant victory for the women of Mabvuku and Budiriro. It underscores their determination to hold local authorities accountable for providing essential health services. The engagement with the mayor not only raises awareness of the challenges faced in maternal health but also sets a precedent for future advocacy efforts.