GOVERNMENT women empowerment programmes continue to make a tangible impact, with a 21-year-old woman from rural Chihota, Danai Kwedza, emerging as a beneficiary after finishing second at the 2025 SADC Tertiary Institutions Essay Competition.
Upbeat about clinching first position next year, Kwedza’s achievement stands as a testament to the effectiveness of policies aimed at uplifting the girl child, particularly those from marginalised communities.
Hailing from Mahusekwa High School in rural Chihota, Danai’s journey from a humble background to the regional academic stage illustrates how empowerment initiatives are translating from policy into real opportunities for young women.
Now an accounting student at the University of Zimbabwe, Danai says her participation in the competition is driven by a desire to acknowledge the support government has extended to girls from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“I have once again entered the SADC essay competition because I am determined to win first position, as a way of appreciating what the government has done for the girl child, especially those from poor backgrounds. Coming from a rural setting and competing at regional level is not easy, but we have shown that it can be done,” she said.
Danai’s second-place finish came with a prize of US$1 500. Despite facing significant challenges, including the lack of a laptop, smartphone and limited access to data for research, she managed to compete with some of the best students in the region.
Her perseverance drew the attention of a local company, which donated a laptop in recognition of her efforts.
“I am grateful to the government for empowering the girl child. It was not easy for me, as I did not have a laptop or a phone and struggled to access data for research, so it was a real challenge,” she said.
Danai’s father, Mr Tendai Kwedza, called on parents to actively support the girl child in pursuing her ambitions.
“As parents, let us support our children, including the girl child, so that they can realise their dreams and complement government efforts,” he said.
Danai’s success is gradually transforming perceptions within rural communities, demonstrating that girls from disadvantaged backgrounds can excel when given the necessary support.
With renewed determination, she now sets her sights on the 2026 SADC Essay Competition, where Zimbabwe is expected to once again be represented on the podium, with the girl child at the forefront.
