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Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has approved the decentralisation of the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) and setting up of provincial offices in Manicaland.
The Commission’s expansion and opening of offices in Mutare is expected to speed up the promotion and respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the province as enshrined in the Constitution.
In an interview, ZHRC chairperson, Dr Elasto Mugwadi said expanding their offices to Mutare is one of the first steps to decentralisation as the Commission should have offices across the country.
“The Commission opened its third country office in October this year right here in Mutare, but it is being manned by a skeletal staff. We hope to scale up its operations this coming year.
“The office will ensure that everyone in Manicaland enjoys their rights while outlawing any basis of discrimination. One is entitled to their human rights simply because they are born human,” he said.
While the Commission has been operating since 2014, it only had offices in Harare and Bulawayo.
Section 243 (1) of the Constitution requires ZHRC to promote awareness of and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
ZHRC’s director for education, promotion and research, Mrs Karukai Ratsauka said the Mutare office is operating with one officer.
“Previously when we had no offices in the province, we would operate from Harare or Bulawayo. The establishment of this regional office means that we are now near the people because the Commission is for the people.
“Our goal is to expand like other Commissions so that we will be readily available in districts or even at ward level for easy accessibility. It is also easier for us to educate people of their rights if we are always interacting with them,” she said.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Nokuthula Matsikenyeri welcomed the decentralisation.
“It is indeed an honour that the Commission has seen it fit to open its offices here in Mutare. As a province, we are very proud to be one of the first beneficiaries of the ZHRC’s decentralisation process,” she said.
Minister Matsikenyeri also called on the ZHRC to fast forward the decentralisation process to ensure universal coverage.
“Fast forward the decentralisation of your offices because we also need them at district and ward levels. You need to be on the ground and not be told by others on what is happening,” she said.
She said since its inception, the ZHRC has taken a leading role in human rights issues within communities across the country.
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