Online Reporter
Zimbabwe moves towards reparative justice
Obey Musiwa and Joseph Madzimure
Herald Reporters
The Zimbabwe National Elders Forum has launched a strategic plan to deal with the effects of colonialism, apartheid, and other forms of oppression.
The plan, which is part of the African Union’s theme for 2025, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations”, aims to provide a framework for reparatory justice and healing.
Speaking at the National Elders Forum in Harare today, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said the strategic plan will serve as a roadmap to accomplish achievements as espoused in the National Development Strategy 1.
He said the Zimbabwe National Elders Forum Strategic Plan forms an integral part of the ministry’s overall objectives.
“The document will provide us with a framework to navigate through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that we remain focused on the nation’s vision of attaining an upper-middle income society by 2030,” he said.
The African Union’s theme for 2025 is “Justice for Africans and People of African descent through reparations”.
The theme was officially launched last month by the Heads of State and Government during the 38th AU summit.
“Last year, the President consummated this noble cause for compensation and reparations and directed the creation and incorporation of the Elders Forum in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to spearhead this effort,” he said.
Minister Garwe said the Zimbabwe National Elders Forum will engage consultants and advisors to enrich its strategic direction.
“It will implement comprehensive insurance measures to protect its interests. Investment strategies will be developed to optimise the use of the funds not immediately required for activities, thereby securing financial stability,” said Minister Garwe.
Elders’ Forum to address colonialism injustices
The president of the Zimbabwe National Elders Forum, Dr Felix Mukonowengwe, has said the Forum intends to look into injustices, trauma, and loss of lives and livelihoods experienced by Zimbabweans through colonialism.
The Forum was launched by President Mnangagwa to conduct research on communities affected by colonialism and to explore options to assist in the healing of affected communities.
The platform is made up of eminent people using their knowledge and experiences to foster a collaborative approach to solving pressing challenges.
Local Government Minister addresses forum
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has addressed participants at the workshop.
He said the workshop will enable the Zimbabwe National Elders Forum to plan for what is best for the country.
Minister Garwe said the President, together with other African Heads of State, was part of the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Summit, where they discussed the theme for the year 2025, ‘Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations’.
“Our President, His Excellency, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, is a champion for reparations,” he said.
Minister Garwe concluded by saying that the Elders’ Forum will help to conserve the country’s culture for the sake of future generations.
Our Reporter Anesu January is at the Manna Resort in Harare, where the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Dr Daniel Garwe, is addressing the National Elders Forum.
He will provide live coverage of the event.
The three-day event is meant to promote national values and economic development through the wisdom of the Elders’ Forum.
During the event, the 2025 strategic plan will be developed.
The Public Service Commission will offer guidance based on the national vision and priority areas.
