Trans Inclusion in the Development Framework of Zimbabwe

A SPOTLIGHT REPORT BASED ON THE NATIONAL TRANS RESEARCH SURVEY.

Since its inception in 2015, the 2030 Agenda has provided a blueprint for shared prosperity in a sustainable world—a world where all people can live productive, vibrant and peaceful lives on a healthy planet. A successful development agenda requires inclusive partnerships: at the global, regional, national and local levels built upon principles and values, and upon a shared vision and shared goals placing people and the planet at the centre. It is against this ambitious background that Trans smart a Trans led CBO in Zimbabwe invested in a baseline for Trans and gender non- conforming persons on their status of inclusion in SDGs.

The process sought to highlight the importance of investing in data for the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Most countries do not regularly collect data for more than half of the global indicators. The lack of accurate and timely data on many marginalized groups and individuals makes them “invisible” and exacerbates their vulnerability. As such Trans smart commissioned this spotlight study and report to provide a baseline on how inclusive the Zimbabwe government has been to the Trans, Intersex and other Gender non- conforming individuals. This report serves as a tool for engagement with allies to build consensus, as well as for duty bearers to push for more provisions and protection and ensure sustainable development for the marginalised key population groups particularly Transgender persons in Zimbabwe.

With particular focus on:

  • SDG 3: ENSURE HEALTHY LIVES AND PROMOTE WELL-BEING FOR ALL AT ALL AGES

  • SDG 4: ENSURE INCLUSIVE AND EQUITABLE QUALITY EDUCATION AND PROMOTE LIFELONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

  • SDG 8: ENSURE DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL

Survey Objectives

  1. To conduct a research and generate a spotlight report on the discrimination and criminalization of transgender persons in Zimbabwe.

  2. To provide evidence on how transgender persons are being left behind in the development framework of Zimbabwe.

  3. To use this evidence and spotlight report to advocate for the human rights and inclusion of trans and gender diverse persons at national, regional and international level.

  4. To use this evidence and spotlight report to better sensitize policy makers and stakeholders within the UN system and encourage them to decriminalize and destigmatize anyone based on gender identity or expression.

  5. To advocate for inclusive laws and equal opportunities for transgender persons.

Read the full report