Breaking the Silence: ex-CZI Employee fights for change after harassment
Thembelihle Mhlanga
In a courageous act of speaking out, Rita Marque Lunga-Mbatha, a former employee at the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industry (CZI), has brought to light the pervasive issue of workplace sexual harassment.
Lunga-Mbatha, who eventually emerged victorious after a grueling legal battle, highlighted at an online engagement facilitated by Community Podium, the immense challenges faced by victims who often choose not to report due to the fear of negative repercussions. “I fought relentlessly to win my case, but it was an uphill battle. The disappearance of essential evidence only added to the mammoth task of seeking justice,” Lunga-Mbatha revealed.
She faced disbelief and dismissal when she reported the harassment to CZI’s then-president, Anthony Mandiwanza, allegedly due to her marital status. This incident was followed by her termination and a grueling court battle where she endured offensive questioning before emerging victorious.
“When I reported sexual harassment to the former President of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries, he averred as follows; “as a married woman you should be ashamed to stay that you have been sexually harassed.”
During the discussion, other participants also expressed agreement with Lunga-Mbatha’s sentiments, highlighting the widespread occurrence of sexual harassment within the workplace. “Victims of workplace sexual harassment often choose not to report it out of fear of losing their job or facing retaliation. This fear is deeply ingrained in our society, making it difficult for victims to come forward,” said one participant.
Another participant echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need to address the culture of silence surrounding sexual harassment. “It is disheartening to know that countless individuals suffer silently, unable to seek justice due to the fear of losing their livelihoods,” they remarked.
Participants stressed the importance of employers taking proactive measures to create safe and supportive environments for their employees. They emphasized that it is the responsibility of employers to ensure that victims can report harassment without the fear of negative consequences. “We need to address the culture of silence surrounding sexual harassment. It’s disheartening to know that so many individuals suffer in silence, unable to seek justice due to the fear of losing their livelihood,” stated another participant.
A call was also made for systemic changes, including the establishment of comprehensive policies and procedures to effectively address workplace sexual harassment. A participant emphasized the importance of providing support mechanisms for victims, conducting thorough investigations, and holding perpetrators accountable. “Employers must take a proactive stance in creating safe and supportive environments for their employees. It is their responsibility to ensure that victims can report harassment without fear of negative consequences,” they remarked. “We must establish stringent policies and procedures to address workplace sexual harassment effectively. This includes providing support mechanisms for victims, conducting thorough investigations, and holding perpetrators accountable,” added another participant.
Workplace sexual harassment undermines the dignity and well-being of individuals while perpetuating a hostile work environment. Urgent action is required from both employers and policymakers to address this deeply rooted issue.
