Community Organisation Tackles Harmful Cultural Practices Head-On
9 October 2020
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By Artwell Sithole| A Chipinge based community organisation, Platform for Youth and Community Development (PYCD) has escalated its fight against ‘harmful cultural practices’ tormenting women and young girls in the district after securing bicycles for its group of gender advocates.

The organisation, which has been working in Chipinge for over 12 years says the bicycles are meant to capacitate their work which was largely affected by poor road infrastructure and long distances.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Checheche last week, PYCD board chairperson, Sally Nobuhle Mlambo said the bicycles were meant to reduce the distance barrier her organisation’s volunteers had to endure to reach their targets.

“I am aware that you have been walking long distances while advocating for the strengthening of young women’s capacity in confronting harmful cultural practices. Use the bicycles to your advantage and ensure gender project objectives are met,” Mlambo said.

One of the beneficiary Richard Mtetwa from Muumbe village, ward 23 of Musikavanhu constituency said the bicycle would help him cover his area of jurisdiction without hussle.

” I am happy to receive the bicycle, this will make it easier for me to cover all areas in my ward,” he said.

Another beneficiary Tilda Mupakati from ward 26 Chipinge South constituency said she will now accelerate her effort for the benefit of young girls in her area.

” I am happy to receive the bicycle, as a young woman the bicycle will make cover most of the areas and ensure that I meet my monthly tasks,” said Mupakati.

PYCD Gender and Advocacy Officer Cynthia Gwenzi urged the beneficiaries to help their communities by advocating for the rights of girls and women.

Chipinge district is one of the areas still battling against harmful cultural practices including child brides, wife inheritance and forced marriages among other challenges.

PYCD is working with community and local government leaders to raise awareness on the right of the girl child to access equal opportunities to their male counterparts.