The crowd that gathered reflected on the future of Zimbabwe through a dedication service including prayer and song. World YWCA General Secretary Nyaradzai Gumbonzvanda welcomed those in attendance and commented on the significance of holding the vigil outside the United Nations. “ We are here because the United Nations is a symbol of humanity and yet for the last few months we have witnessed gross violations of human rights for women, girls, men and boys.”

To mark the murders of Zimbabweans killed in post election violence, a gong was sound 88 times to mark the 88 official deaths that have been reported in the aftermath.

The vigil was also an opportunity to mark the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture (June 26) and remember victims of violence and torture in Zimbabwe. World YWCA staff lay a tray of bread, milk, sugar and medical supplies to highlight the basic necessities that Zimbabweans currently have no access to; or if they do, must queue for hours daily to buy.

As the world waits to see how the Zimbabwe crisis will unfold, the World YWCA calls on member associations and partners to continue to respond to the situation in Zimbabwe in the following ways:

• Support and donate ongoing humanitarian efforts
• Say ‘No’ to violence especially abuse of women and girls
• Advocate for an urgent and peaceful solution to the political crisis that includes women’s perspectives and voices in the peace building process
• Dedicate a prayer session to Zimbabwe

Related Links

• YWCA of Zimbabwe targeted by youth militia as crisis deepens
• Zimbabweans share grim reality at Human Rights Council
• Churches worldwide asked to pray for Zimbabwe
• Its an Emergency: Stop the Violence and Protect Women and Girls Now
• Women and Girls Live with Intimidation as Zimbabwe Teeters on the Edge