Context & challenge

Despite Zimbabwe's constitutional guarantees of gender equality, women's representation at local government levels had dropped 3%, revealing systemic barriers to political participation. Hivos Zimbabwe needed a strategic communication tool for their Women Empowered for Leadership (WE4L) programme.

Our approach

Nafuna Africa created a strategic explainer video that visualized discriminatory narratives, patriarchal cultural practices, and isolation of women leaders through compelling data graphics and metaphorical imagery. Designed for multiple audiences—from donors to government officials to women leaders themselves—the video translated complex gender theory into actionable advocacy.

Impact & results

The strategic communication value was recognized by the European Union, contributing to securing €1.1 million in funding for subsequent women's leadership programming and establishing Nafuna Africa's reputation for development communications that actively drive program success and sustainability.