Conflict resolution key to development

Joyce Mukucha Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWEANS have been urged to resolve conflicts amicably to ensure smooth development of the country. Centre for Conflict Management and Transformation (CCMT) coordinator Mr Xavier Mudangu said violence always hindered the development of nations.

He made the remarks during belated commemorations of the International Peace Day last week.

The celebrations were held in Chitungwiza under the theme: “Together for Peace, Respect, Safety and Dignity for all”.

“As an organisation, our philosophy is that peace is positive if it’s managed well, we encourage the idea of dialogue where communities and stakeholders come together and find solutions to end conflicts,” he said.

“As CCMT we have been convening dialogues in urban communities, Midlands and Masvingo provinces, but currently we are carrying out certain interventions on different districts, which include Mberengwa, Zvishavane, and Tongogara, we want peace amongst people in communities.”

Mr Mudangu said without dialogue, conflicts continued occurring, hindering development in the process.

“The more we promote dialogue, the more we see positive peace prevailing in the country,” he said.

“There are many ways in which people can deal with conflicts. Some people resort to violence, but were can avoid such actions through dialogue. Our role is to provide the space in which stakeholders and communities can come to discuss different issues. We have definitely been witnessing a lot of positive changes in terms of behaviour and peoples’ attitude towards peace in general and also in terms of development within the communities.”

Mr Mudangu said dialogue was vital in bringing people together and allowed them to explore situations that affected development.

A Chitungwiza resident Pastor Shepherd Matyora said: “As a society, we advocate unity and love so that peace can prevail. If we respect each other in our communities it helps our nation to grow.

“As a pastor, I believe that if we learn to respect each other in our families and society and recognise that everyone is equally important, we will build a brighter Zimbabwe.”