‘Learn other people’s languages’

Delivering a vote of thanks at the installation of 23-year-old Thursus Ncube as Chief Madlambuzi in Bulilima District, in Matabeleland South on Friday, Ambassador Moyo said taking time to learn other people’s languages would foster a spirit of togetherness in the country.

 

“The party leadership at all levels would do well to learn to communicate in local languages as a way of fostering unity in the country,” said Ambassador Moyo.

He said during the 10 years that he was Zimbabwean Ambassador to South Africa, he had noted that all politicians in the neighbouring country were fluent in the three main local languages, Zulu, Sotho and Xhosa.

“In Zimbabwe, we are fortunate that there are only two major vernacular languages, Shona and Ndebele. It is imperative that every Zimbabwean leader must be at least conversant in the two languages so that when they visit different parts of the country, they are able to show respect by addressing people using their local languages,” he said.

Ambassador Moyo said last week he was at a funeral in Mount Darwin, Mashonaland Central and he was able to address the people there using their Shona language.

“This lessens the need to get an interpreter, who might fail to convey the full meaning of an address. It is important for leaders to learn people’s languages so that the electorate feels appreciated,” said Ambassador Moyo.

He said he was also saddened by the inconvenience people face at roadblocks and other public places, when they are confronted by officials who can hardly speak a word of the local language.

“How do you expect such a person to assist the public? The elderly suffer the most in such cases. I am advocating for a system whereby people take time to at least learn the two major local languages,” said Ambassador Moyo, drawing applause and ululation from the huge crowd.

He advised people to be ready for the referendum and harmonised elections as the draft constitution, which had been holding up the process, was now ready.

Ambassador Moyo donated two tonnes of maize to the newly installed chief for Isiphala Senkosi to assist the vulnerable groups in the area.

The ceremony was also attended by the Minister of Local Government, Rural and Urban Development, Dr Ignatius Chombo, Co-Minister in the Organ for National Healing, Integration and Reconciliation Moses Mzila-Ndlovu, Queen Elisa Kata and Chief Tiago Buta from Angola, Government officials, traditional leaders and villagers.