Intersections of Religion, Gender-Based Violence and Sustainable Development in Zimbabwe

Gender-based violence has been a problem since time immemorial, affecting both women and men, but women have been disproportionally affected by the menace. In view of this, the chapter examines how gender intersects with religion, particularly Christianity, and sustainable development in the context of Zimbabwe, to promote peaceful communities that serve as the springboard for sustainable development. The chapter is based on a survey. The picture that emerges from the desktop research is that religion is a double-edged sword when it comes to gender-based violence and men’s and women’s participation in programmes and projects that enhance sustainable development. There are strands of Christianity that lay a fertile ground for discrimination and violence against women through teachings and practices such as identifying women as sinners who brought sin into the world and who serve as men’s temptresses and the inherent subordination of women to men in both private and public spheres. The beliefs, teachings and practices have the effect of curtailing women’s full participation in the communities, including decision-making and practical involvement, thereby stifling their contributions, and ultimately serving as an impediment to sustainable development. On the other hand, there are strands of Christianity that challenge gendered discrimination and gender-based violence and encourage women to take part in decision-making and development projects, thereby engendering sustainable development, which addresses the needs of both men and women. It is suggested that if the church in its entirety could adopt a gender-sensitive attitude that challenges discrimination against women and gender-based violence, sustainable development could be realised. Continuous engagement of the church by gender activists and development actors could go a long way in enhancing sustainable development.