Online Reporter
Tanyaradzwa Rusike
THE Government is finalising preparations for a series of public awareness campaigns in Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South to inform local communities about the objectives of the upcoming outreach aimed at addressing post-independence disturbances that affected the provinces.
The awareness campaigns are a prelude to the launch of the Matabeleland Peacebuilding Outreach Programme, which seeks to document and address the instability that broke out in the two provinces and parts of Midlands province during the 1980s. In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Attorney-General Mrs Virginia Mabiza, who also heads the secretariat for the Matabeleland Peacebuilding Outreach Programme, said the awareness campaign will also explain how individuals can participate in the process.
“The awareness campaigns under the Gukurahundi Outreach Programme are set to commence in the coming weeks,” she said.
“These campaigns will focus on educating the public about the objectives of the outreach and the role of traditional leaders in facilitating inclusive dialogue.
“With the dedication and commitment of our traditional leaders and support teams, we are confident that these campaigns will establish a strong foundation for meaningful engagement and national reconciliation.” The outreach programme, she said, aims to build a strong foundation for national healing.
“The campaigns will target the Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South provinces, particularly in districts where the outreach programme will be rolled out,” added Mrs Mabiza.
“Community engagement will be a key component of the campaigns, with traditional leaders playing a crucial role in mobilising residents to participate in the outreach programme. This collaborative approach will ensure that the campaigns successfully reach as many people as possible in targeted provinces.” The community engagement, added Mrs Mabiza, is a core component of the campaign, with traditional leaders expected to mobilise and ensure widespread participation.
“The campaigns aim to sensitise communities about the objectives, processes and structure of the Gukurahundi Outreach Programme,” she said.
“The campaigns will also provide information on how individuals can participate in the outreach programme and share their experiences and perspectives. There will be a focus on addressing any misconceptions or concerns that community members may have about the programme.
“Overall, the goal is to create a supportive and understanding environment for open and honest discussions about the Gukurahundi period in Zimbabwe’s history.”
She said commencement of the campaigns will ensure the effective resolution of all legacy issues surrounding Gukurahundi and promote healing and reconciliation.
“The campaigns are critical in building public confidence, dispelling misinformation and ensuring that communities understand the purpose and voluntary nature of the outreach.
“They promote informed participation and enhance the transparency and legitimacy of the overall process.
“Through these campaigns, individuals can make informed decisions about their involvement in the outreach programme.
“By providing accurate information and addressing any concerns or doubts, the campaigns serve to create a sense of trust and cooperation within the community.”
She said the campaign ultimately seeks to create a supportive environment that encourages open and honest conversations about the Gukurahundi period in Zimbabwe’s history.
She added that significant progress had been made for the commencement of the outreach programme, including allocation of resources and personnel.
“Traditional leaders have received the tools, training and materials necessary to begin their work effectively,” added Mrs Mabiza.
“Resources have been allocated to achieve the established goals.
“With traditional leaders taking charge and actively engaging with the community, this initiative is fostering a sense of ownership and unity among the people.
“As the programme continues to develop, there is optimism that lasting change and progress will be achieved.”
President of the National Council of Chiefs Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo said: “The Government has played a significant role in this project. Now, we are preparing to start the awareness campaigns ahead of the rolling out of the outreach programme.”
Online Reporter