A recent film screening in Sese, hosted by My Age Zimbabwe, has ignited crucial conversations surrounding the intersection of climate change, water scarcity, and sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR). The event, which drew 22 participants from diverse backgrounds, including community leaders, educators, service providers, and young people, centered around the short film “Garden.” This poignant film features the personal narratives of Anesuishe and Definite, two young individuals whose experiences vividly illustrate the interconnectedness of these pressing issues.
The three-minute film effectively portrays how changing weather patterns have disrupted traditional farming practices and exacerbated water shortages in the region. Anesuishe recounts the arduous task of fetching water for school gardens, while Definite sheds light on the detrimental impact of limited water access on menstrual health for young women.
Following the screening, a robust discussion ensued, revealing a strong resonance between the film’s themes and the lived realities of the participants. Community members shared their daily struggles of traversing distances of 4–7 kilometers in search of water, often relying on dry boreholes or distant rivers. The disproportionate burden borne by women and girls was a recurring concern, as they face increased risks of harassment and educational setbacks due to late-night water collection. Furthermore, the issue of period poverty emerged as a significant challenge, with water scarcity exacerbating menstrual stigma and contributing to absenteeism from school and other activities.
A sense of frustration was palpable among participants regarding the perceived disconnect between communities and local authorities. Despite repeated appeals to local councils, water supply issues remain largely unresolved. Young people expressed feelings of marginalization and disempowerment, lamenting their exclusion from decision-making processes concerning local solutions.
Audience reactions to the film were varied. While many participants expressed appreciation for highlighting the link between climate change and SRHR, others voiced anger over years of unaddressed concerns, particularly regarding the persistent problem of broken boreholes.
The screening culminated in the identification of concrete action points. Participants are committed to continued lobbying of local leaders and business owners to facilitate the restoration of taps and boreholes. Additionally, efforts will be made to mobilize youth participation in tree planting initiatives on National Tree Planting Day. Recommendations also emphasized the importance of empowering young people through training in water harvesting techniques and the creation of reusable sanitary pads, promoting sustainable and locally driven solutions.
The Sese film screening serves as a powerful testament to the catalytic role of film in fostering dialogue, enabling communities to reflect on shared challenges, and inspiring collective action. By fostering conversations between youth, civil society organizations, and service providers, the event underscored the critical need for multi-stakeholder collaboration in achieving sustainable and meaningful change.
