adminLocadia Mavhudzi Midlands Correspondent
The Midlands Provincial Peace Committee has been successfully launched, amid calls for the new peace advocates to spearhead resolution of conflicts mainly in the artisanal mining sector where conflict has often led to machete attacks in Kwekwe, Shurugwi, Lower Gweru and Zhombe.
The Midlands Provincial Peace Committee will be led by Commissioner Netty Musanhu and two deputies, Assistant Inspector Ethel Mukwende from the Zimbabwe Republic Police and Cde Vongai Mpereri from Zanu-PF.
The Provincial Peace Committee comprises of 40 people drawn from political parties, Government, traditional leaders, churches, arts and cultural organisations, civil society, business, academia, persons with disabilities, women and youth, among others.
Speaking at the provincial launch, National Peace and Reconciliation Commission chairperson Justice Selo Nare implored the committee to promote tolerance building and provide strategic advice and early warning on potential threats to the peace and stability of the communities.
“It is your duty to promote peace within the province, create spaces for dialogue between groups and communities and for the exchange of ideas on issues that may threaten peace and stability,” he said.
“I have been informed that a lot of conflict is prevailing in the artisanal mining sector in various districts in this province. It is an area where you need to intervene and proffer sustainable solutions.”
Justice Nare said Zimbabwe was undergoing a critical political and economic transition that has potential to transform the country towards sustainable development and improvement of citizens’ lives.
He said the peace committees will cascade to the district, ward and village level so that all levels of national structures are involved in the consummation of peace.
“The committee will engage in public education, sensitisation and awareness about conflict indicators and how to ameliorate them while facilitating organisation of activities that build friendships, promote trust and goodwill between communities in conflict,” he said.
The NPRC is mandated to heal past conflicts, redress current hurts and fears while re-setting the foundation for peace now and in the future.
Online Reporter