During the reporting period, the Zimbabwe Women Doctors Association (ZWDA) continued activities supporting professional development, women’s health and the advancement of women doctors. ZWDA participated in the CLIRNET webinar and supported the Women’s Health Indaba, contributing to dialogue on women’s health priorities and professional engagement.
ZWDA also continued its commitment to encouraging the next generation of women doctors through the Best Female Student Award at the University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences. The award recognises academic achievement and reinforces the Association’s commitment to mentorship, visibility and leadership development for young women entering the profession.
A key organisational activity this quarter was a member survey undertaken to guide ZWDA’s strategic planning. Forty-three responses were received. Members identified advocacy for women doctors’ professional issues, mentorship and career development, leadership development, wellness, support for younger doctors and greater engagement outside Harare as important priorities. The survey also showed that many members value the ZWDA WhatsApp community, CME updates, networking and recognition of women doctors, while practical barriers such as cost, time and uncertainty about how to become involved can limit participation.
The Executive Committee is using these findings to shape the next phase of the Association. Priorities include strengthening structured mentorship, improving opportunities for members to participate, expanding provincial representation, and developing a clearer advocacy role. ZWDA is exploring the establishment of chapters in Bulawayo and Masvingo as part of its goal of becoming more nationally representative.
Following the AGM, the new EXCO has also focused on strengthening administrative capacity through dedicated secretariat support and professional events planning. These systems are intended to improve membership administration, communication and delivery of future activities, including preparations and fundraising planning for the MWIA Regional Congress.