Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike in Masvingo
Zimbabwe’s African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) process continues to demonstrate the country’s strong commitment to national ownership, transparency, and inclusive governance, the National Governing Council Chairperson, Ambassador James Manzou, has stated.
Speaking at the close of the targeted review on economic governance and management draft report validation workshop in Masvingo, Ambassador Manzou highlighted that the robust discussions and consensus reached by participants underscored a shared resolve to ensure accuracy and credibility in the APRM country self-assessment report.
Acting Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Willard Manungo, was the guest at the workshop.
Ambassador Manzou remarked:
“The robust discussions and consensus reached reflect our shared commitment to accuracy, transparency, and national ownership of the APRM processes.
“I wish to particularly commend all ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as stakeholders represented here, for taking collective responsibility in validating the information that falls within their respective mandates.”
He emphasised that the inclusive and participatory nature of the engagement was central to the APRM philosophy, noting its importance in producing a report that genuinely reflects Zimbabwe’s progress, challenges, and national priorities.
“This inclusive and participatory approach lies at the heart of the APRM process and is essential in producing a report that truly reflects our country’s progress and priorities,” he stated.
He added that the outcomes from the workshop, including agreed corrections and comments, would be consolidated and submitted to the APRM Continental Secretariat as part of the finalisation process.
“Allow me to assure you that the outcomes of this workshop will be submitted for consideration as we move towards the finalisation of the report. The work undertaken here carries significant weight and will contribute meaningfully to shaping the final product,” he stated.
Ambassador Manzou urged stakeholders to maintain the spirit of collaboration beyond the workshop, emphasising that the APRM process is not an end in itself but a strategic tool to strengthen governance systems and support national development aspirations.
“As we leave this workshop, let us maintain the same level of collaboration and commitment. The APRM is a tool to strengthen governance and support our national development aspirations, and our partnership on this shared journey must continue,” he affirmed.
