HARARE – The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) has launched a nationwide investigation into sexual harassment at institutions of higher and tertiary education, urging students, staff, and members of the public to submit evidence and testimonies.
The Commission announced the inquiry in a government gazette published this week, citing a growing number of complaints about sexual misconduct in Zimbabwe’s colleges and universities.
“As part of our mandate, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission is investigating cases of sexual harassment in institutions of higher and tertiary education,” the ZGC said in a statement.
Individuals with information are invited to submit written complaints, witness statements, or supporting documents by August 31, 2025, either in person at the Commission’s offices or via email to [email protected]. Oral hearings will follow, with dates to be announced.
In a notice in the government gazette, ZGC chairperson Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe wrote: “It is hereby notified that, in terms of section 5 of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission Act [Chapter 10:31], the Zimbabwe Gender Commission intends to investigate complaints of sexual harassment in institutions of higher learning in Zimbabwe.
“Further to the above notice, an invitation is hereby given to any victims or witnesses to any acts of sexual harassment and abuse in tertiary institutions to present to the Commission written complaints, witness statements, and any other supporting documents or evidence which can assist in the investigation.”
The investigation covers all tertiary institutions, including the University of Zimbabwe, Midlands State University, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Bulawayo Polytechnic, and others.
The probe aims to promote gender justice and hold institutions accountable.
