By Staff Reporter
Harare – The Professional Women, Women Executives, and Business Women’s Forum (PROWEB) launched its 20th-anniversary celebrations on Friday under the theme “20 Years of Impact: From Empowerment to Prosperity,” signaling a renewed commitment to advancing women’s economic leadership in Zimbabwe and beyond.
The event, attended by government officials, diplomats, corporate leaders, and members, highlighted two decades of transformative work while outlining ambitious plans to drive women’s wealth creation and decision-making over the next 20 years.
PROWEB Vice President Kudzai Gochera opened the ceremony, welcoming guests to reflect on the organization’s journey. Executive Director Catherine Nyatara chronicled milestones since PROWEB’s founding in 2004, emphasizing its role in equipping thousands of women with leadership and business skills.
Founding Trustee Susan Makore recounted the organization’s origins, stressing its enduring mission to dismantle barriers for women in male-dominated sectors.
Looking ahead, PROWEB 1st Vice-President Rudo Mudavanhu unveiled strategic initiatives under the banner “Shaping the Next 20 Years – A Pathway to Prosperity.”
Key programs include the Coal Grant Initiative, presented by Emilia Chisango, aimed at boosting women’s access to sustainable energy resources, and Special Projects led by Tarisai Likangala to expand entrepreneurial training and funding.
Diplomatic envoys from China, Egypt, and Turkey pledged solidarity, with Chinese Ambassador Zhou Ding applauding PROWEB’s alignment with global gender equality goals.
A poignant tribute honored late advocate Florence Ziumbe, whose legacy continues to inspire PROWEB’s vision.
President Tendayi Hlupo-Mamvura echoed this sentiment, declaring that the focus was on ensuring women transition from empowerment to prosperity—owning assets, leading industries, and shaping policy.
Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, overseeing Women’s Affairs and SMEs, closed the event by reaffirming government support to empowering women in the business community.
The evening culminated in a celebratory performance by musician Tariro NeGitare and a toast to PROWEB’s legacy.
