Sitabile Dewa, a passionate women’s rights activist in Zimbabwe, has taken up the challenge of confronting her country’s ban on sex toys, which she perceives as a violation of personal freedom.

The legislation currently criminalizes the importation and possession of sex toys, a stance that Dewa considers outdated and oppressive. Her courageous campaign forms part of a larger movement seeking to challenge the deeply entrenched patriarchal norms prevalent in Zimbabwe, where women often face limited choices. Recognized as a significant force in promoting sexual liberation, Dewa’s activism aims to dismantle societal discomfort surrounding female sexuality.

Understanding Zimbabwe’s history, it becomes apparent that there exists a stark contrast between the pre-colonial era, during which African women enjoyed sexual expression, and the restrictive influences of colonialism and religion. Although progress is being made, there persists resistance against women’s sexual agency, making Dewa’s advocacy all the more crucial in driving meaningful change.