GALZ Pushes for LGBTI Rights Protection

Rutendo Mazhindu

ZimNow Reporter

GALZ, an organisation working to advance the rights and dignity of LGBTI individuals in Zimbabwe, said it continues to offer vital support services and push for long-term legal reforms in a hostile environment.

Speaking in an interview with ZimNow, Tanatswa Gumbo, the Information and Communications Officer at GALZ, said the organisation provides a range of services to individuals facing discrimination or violence.

“We offer legal aid, psychosocial support, family reintegration and safe housing. Our in-house Legal Officer works with pro bono lawyers, Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), law enforcement, and other supportive services like the Friendship Bench,” Gumbo said.

Gumbo added that GALZ also assists with emergency relocation for those in immediate danger.

Beyond support services, the organisation is actively lobbying for policy reforms and legal protections. “We use strategic litigation, dialogue with policymakers, and participate in regional processes such as the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) to advocate for LGBTI rights,” Gumbo said.

GALZ documents human rights violations and conducts needs assessments to generate data that strengthens its advocacy work.

The organisation runs initiatives that promote understanding and inclusion of LGBTI people within communities. “We train community members to speak for themselves. We also engage religious and traditional leaders to shift narratives, and provide media training to encourage sensitive and responsible reporting,” she said.

According to Gumbo, one of the biggest challenges remains the criminalisation of same-sex conduct under Section 73 of the Criminal Code.

“This law makes it difficult for LGBTI people to access basic services such as healthcare, housing, employment and education. These legal barriers are worsened by societal stigma,” she said.

GALZ combats these challenges through awareness campaigns, health worker training for inclusive service delivery, and wellness resource centres that offer affirming care.

“We also provide skills training to empower the community and reduce dependence. Above all, we make sure our spaces are safe, free from violence and judgment,” said Gumbo.

Funding comes partly from its membership base, as well as from partnerships with organisations at the local, regional and international levels.

“Our goal is a just society where LGBTI people are treated as equal citizens,” Gumbo said. “To get there, we are focusing on decriminalisation, anti-discrimination protections and improving visibility in society.”