Ivan Zhakata in MBERENGWA CENTRAL
GOVERNMENT has intensified its nationwide constitutional awareness drive to improve access to justice for all citizens by 2030, with rural communities in Mberengwa urged to familiarise themselves with their fundamental rights, freedoms, and responsibilities.
Speaking at a Constitutional Awareness Campaign in the district, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Deputy Minister Advocate Nobert Mazungunye stated that the initiative aims to decentralise legal education and empower citizens with knowledge of the country’s supreme law.
He emphasised that an informed public is critical for promoting constitutionalism, respect for the rule of law, and active participation in national governance.
“The purpose of this gathering is to promote public awareness of the Constitution of Zimbabwe,” Adv Mazungunye said.
“We will be highlighting its provisions and ensuring that citizens understand their constitutional rights, including the rights of persons with disabilities.”
He noted that the supreme law anchors the nation’s governance frameworks, public institutions, and human rights protections.
“The Constitution is the supreme law of our country. It provides the framework upon which our Government systems, public institutions and fundamental rights are anchored. It defines the powers and responsibilities of the State, provides for the protection of fundamental rights and establishes principles that guide the conduct of public affairs,” he added.
The Deputy Minister cautioned that exercising constitutional rights must be balanced with civic responsibilities, such as respecting the rights of others and utilizing lawful channels to resolve grievances.
To reach citizens regardless of their geographical location or educational background, the Ministry is deploying community meetings, public education programmes, exhibitions, radio broadcasts, and translated constitutional literature. Deputy Minister Mazungunye called on community leaders, traditional leaders, and civil society organisations to complement these state-led efforts.
Mberengwa District Development Coordinator Mr Arnold Magaya echoed similar sentiments, describing constitutional literacy as a collective responsibility.
He commended the ministry for taking the legal campaign directly to grassroots communities.
“The responsibility of promoting public awareness of the Constitution does not rest with the Ministry of Justice alone. This is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all stakeholders,” Mr Magaya said.
He urged participants to leverage the campaign to deepen their understanding of the law, thereby strengthening public participation and building a culture of national constitutionalism.
