Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has emphasised stronger community partnerships in the fight against crime as it relaunched its Client Service Charter in Hwange District, Matabeleland North province, pledging to improve professionalism, accountability and transparency in service delivery.
The relaunch, held at Lwendulu Bus Terminus on Tuesday, brought together the District Development Coordinator, Chiefs Whange, Nelukoba-Dingani and Nekatambe, heads of Government departments, church leaders, civic organisations, traditional leaders, councillors, business representatives, Zanu PF leadership, Hwange Local Board officials and members of the public.
Speaking during the event, Officer Commanding Police Hwange District, Chief Superintendent Tagurana Nehwasvi, described the charter as more than a policy document, saying it was a renewed pledge between the police and the communities they serve.
“We are gathered here to remind the people of Hwange District of the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s constitutional mandate as we recommit to serving Hwange District with integrity and excellence,” he said.
“We are reinvigorating the oath that we swore to the people of this district by relaunching the Police Client Service Charter.”
Chief Supt Nehwasvi said the charter clearly outlines the minimum standards of service members of the public should expect whenever they interact with the police, including professionalism, courtesy, efficiency and timely responses.
He acknowledged that the relationship between the police and some sections of the community had weakened over time due to concerns over service delivery.
“The trust between police and the public has, in some instances, deteriorated and I am very much aware,” he said.
Using the analogy of a village well that had become silted, Chief Supt Nehwasvi said the relaunch represented efforts to restore confidence in policing.
“Today, we commit to clearing the well. This Client Service Charter is our shovel, our bucket and our promise of clean and clear water for all,” he stated.
He pledged that police officers would uphold the values of professionalism, integrity, respect and impartiality while ensuring members of the public receive prompt assistance, case reference numbers and regular feedback on reported matters.
As part of measures to strengthen accountability, Chief Supt Nehwasvi announced that police officers deployed in uniform would soon be required to wear visible name tags, making it easier for members of the public to identify officers and report misconduct.
He encouraged residents to make use of the contact details and social media platforms provided in the charter to submit complaints, compliments and suggestions, adding that public participation was essential in rooting out corruption within the police service.
The senior police officer also highlighted the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s adoption of modern technology to improve policing and service delivery.
These include the introduction of body-worn cameras, speed monitoring devices and drones to enhance transparency, improve evidence gathering and strengthen traffic management.
“The gadgets serve as both a deterrent to misconduct and a shield for honest officers,” he said.
Chief Supt Nehwasvi challenged communities to play an active role in crime prevention by promptly reporting suspicious activities and participating in neighbourhood safety initiatives.
“When you see something, say something. Don’t dismiss a piece of information as too petty. In the great tapestry of community safety, every thread counts,” he said.
He urged residents to support community policing structures such as Neighbourhood Watch Committees and treat police officers with mutual respect.
During the awareness campaign, police officers showcased the work of various specialised units, including the Victim Friendly Unit, Anti-Stock Theft Unit, Traffic Section and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Drugs and Narcotics Section.
Officers also educated the public on ongoing anti-drug and substance abuse campaigns and other crime prevention programmes.
Over the years, ZRP Hwange has strengthened partnerships with communities through initiatives such as the Neighbourhood Watch Committee, Christian Churches Police Network, Business Against Crime Forum and Crime Liaison Committee, which bring together residents, businesses, churches and other stakeholders to support crime prevention.
The relaunch of the Client Service Charter forms part of the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s broader efforts to build public confidence, improve accountability and promote community-centred policing through closer collaboration with residents and stakeholders across Hwange District.
