The Zimbabwe Gender Commission officiated a workshop at the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Manicaland Provincial Offices, focusing on sexual harassment and workplace conduct among other issues
The Commission, a constitutional body mandated to promote gender equality and investigate cases of gender-based discrimination, engaged officers in an open discussion aimed at raising awareness on sexual harassment and related workplace gender issues.
The workshop was characterised by active participation, with officers given an opportunity to openly contribute, ask questions and share experiences in a transparent and inclusive environment.
Speaking at the workshop on behalf of Commissioner Chinobva, ZPCS Manicaland Province Deputy Officer Commanding Assistant Commissioner George Mutimbanyoka expressed appreciation for the engagement, saying it helped clear misconceptions on gender issues.
“We would like to thank the Gender Commission. Some previously thought this commission only represented women, but today we have learned a lot and can now correct some of our mistakes,” he said.
Assistant Commissioner Mutimbanyoka added that the workshop had broadened the understanding of what constitutes sexual harassment and the importance of maintaining professional boundaries.
He noted that the knowledge gained would assist officers to handle complaints more professionally and foster a safer and more respectful working environment.
Zimbabwe Gender Commission Public Education and Information Officer Takudzwa Muzanenhamo went to depth on sexual harassment and its various forms.
She revealed that harassment can be verbal, physical, non-verbal or psychological, and included unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments and conduct that creates a hostile work environment. She urged officers to be vigilant and to report cases through proper channels.
Zimbabwe Gender Commission – Manicaland Legal Officer Tinotenda Madzimure presented on workplace dressing and the unacceptable behaviour on the workplace.
She emphasised that some comments, even if perceived as jokes, are not necessary and can amount to harassment if the other party does not welcome them.
She clarified that any unwelcome remark, gesture or conduct that makes another person uncomfortable constitutes harassment and should not be tolerated in the workplace.
Madzimure further urged officers to take proactive steps in addressing domestic violence and to consider writing wills as part of responsible planning.
She stressed that harassment and domestic violence affect both men and women.
“Be it a man or woman, everyone is susceptible to harassment or domestic violence,” She said.
ZPCS Manicaland Provincial Sports Officer – Chief Correctional Officer Cousinate Simunyu commended the Commission for the informative session.
“Today we learned a lot. Today’s deliberations will help us in our day-to-day lives at the workplace. The engagement allowed us to express our thoughts and gave us the opportunity to highlight issues that affect some of us at work,” she said.
The workshop ended with a shared commitment to strengthen awareness and promote a harassment-free working environment within ZPCS Manicaland Province.
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