13.2 As noted previously, the COPAC Draft’s clear mandate that customs and practices must respect women’s rights and equality is welcome. It is, however, dissapointing that the promotion of women’s equality is not listed in the functions of traditional leadership. Nor does the COPAC Draft contain any provision for encouraging women’s representation among traditional leaders or on the Council of Chiefs. 14.Chapter 16: Agricultural Land 14.1 As Zimbabwe is primarily an agrarian society, with about 80% of the population living in rural areas and gaining income from farming, access to productive land is crucial to individual economic well being. The COPAC Draft reognizes the importance of ensuring women have equal access to land. In Clause 16.2, the Draft states that the principles of land distribution must take into account that allocation of land must be fair and equitable, with regard for gender balance. Moreover, the Land Commission, responsible for oversight of distribution mechanisms, is mandated to make recommendations to the government on equitable access and the elimination of gender discrimination. Finally, Clause 16.9 detailing the terms of membership in the Land Commission requires that the members reflect the diversity of Zimbabwe’ population, with a focus on achieving gender balance. These provisions are most welcome in ensuring women’s voice and needs are taken into account in the distribution and use of land. 15.Chapter 17: Finance 15.1 Clause 17.1(b) recognizes that one of the principles of public financial management is to make special provision for marginalized groups. This is a welcome acknowledgment but the need for taking into account women’s needs in particular in public finance is well recognized and should be reflected in the constitution. 15.2 It is submitted that the Constitution should reflect a mandate for gender-responsive budgeting (GRB), government planning, programming and budgeting that contributes to the advancement of gender equality and the fulfillment of women's rights. Such an approach to finance would entail identifying and reflecting needed interventions to address gender gaps in sector and local government policies, plans and budgets. Through this mechanism, many of the constitutional rights to equality guaranteed to women by the COPAC draft would be effectively actualized. 16.Conclusion 16.1 17 | P a g e In conclusion, it can be said that the COPAC Draft is a significant improvement on the current Constitution in the area of women’s rights. It contains the core components of a gender sensitive framework and provides a much needed platform upon which women’s equality can be based for generations to come. Should this Draft become Zimbabwe’s new constitution, there will be much for women to celebrate, including constitutionally protected gender equality, affirmative action, prevention of domestic violence, equal representation in parliament, and equality in access to land.