Sundaymail Editor
Sunday Mail Reporter
Africa University (AU), in conjunction with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), recently joined the world in commemorating the International Day of Peace.
The day, celebrated annually on September 21, is set aside for commemorating the alleviation of conflicts, cessation of intra and inter-state hostilities and calling on mankind to make a pledge for peace. This year’s commemorations were themed: “Ending racism, building peace.”
Speaking during the commemorations in Mutare, AU interim deputy vice-chancellor Professor Pamela Machakanja called for peaceful resolution of conflicts. “There is a cost to not talking. We know that conflict is inevitable but dialogue is important,” said Prof Machakanja.”Through dialogue, we grow and develop as a community.
“Peace should always be the ultimate goal. We are called to action to propagate peace.” In a speech read on her behalf, UNDP country representative, Ms Mia Seppo called for peace and unity.
“I call on you to imbibe the qualities of peace and encourage active dialogue,” she said. “The beauty and grandeur of your respective countries lies in your diversity. We appreciate the long-standing relationship that Africa University has had with the United Nations as we create platforms for common ground.”
“We need to address the root cause of inequality and work towards building peaceful and inclusive communities.
Ms Seppo urged communities to shun racism. She said the Covid-19 pandemic rekindled the spectre of racism through the rise of vaccine nationalism. “Sporting events are also not spared of the scourge. We must lend our support to movements that raise up human rights and expose hate speech both on and offline,” she said.
Online Reporter