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A LOCAL organisation, Hweva Association, says ancestors are a big part of Zimbabweans and want the Culture Day commemorations, which will be held in Binga on May 20, to be declared a public holiday.
Hweva Association president, Diana Samkange, has petitioned parliament to recognise the day as a public holiday.
“There is a need to observe such a day as the younger generation have forgotten the important role that ancestors played in getting the country where it is today.
“The major complaint attributed to the ancestors is that they have been neglected.
“We have failed to provide recognition of our ancestors as the owners and custodians of our lands, and acknowledge their agency beyond the grave.”
She added: “There must be appropriate measures to create conditions that are conducive to a constructive interreligious relationship between various religious communities based on mutual respect, understanding and tolerance.
“This should include publicity campaigns aimed at elimination of any form of prejudice against individuals or communities, based on their cultural or religious identity.
“The State has a responsibility to initiate programmes aimed at preserving and restoring cultural heritage.
“There should be an obligation to provide all that is necessary for the fulfilment of the right to take part in cultural (activities) where communities do not have the necessary means to realise this right,” she said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter