News, Stories and Upcoming Events by ZCC.

ZCC is a fellowship of 31 member churches who together represent Christians in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Alternative Mining Indaba 2024 Declaration

Energy Transition Minerals꞉ Putting Communities First for Community Development Preamble 1.1 The 13th Edition of the Zimbabwe Alternative Mining Indaba (ZAMI) was held in Bulawayo from the 28th of October 2024 to the 1st of November 2024 under the theme, “Energy Transition Minerals꞉ Putting Communities First for Community Development, convened by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA), Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (ZIMCODD), and Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC). 1.2 Over 150 delegates from various sectors representing public, private, and Non-Governmental Organizations, including the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC); Ministry of State for Provincial Affairs; Ministry of Mines and Mining Development; Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small, and Medium Enterprises; Environmental Management Agency (EMA); Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA); Parliament of Zimbabwe (PoZ);  community and environmental activists; the Church; academia; development partners; media; and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), convened in Bulawayo while many others participated virtually. 1.3 The 13th Edition of the ZAMI probed diverse discussions on opportunities for the Just transition in the mining sector with a focus on many areas including, but not limited to, Clean Energy Transition; Public Debt, the Inequality and Extractives Nexus; Responsible Mining; Mining Royalties and Tax Justice; Mining Induced Displacements; Legal Framework in the Extractives; and Environmental Impacts of Mining. 1.4 Recognizing how pivotal the 13th ZAMI is as the world shifts and commits to a Net Zero Economy, guided by the Paris Agreement, to combat climate change-induced existential threats. As a result, this global commitment is driving a substantial increase in demand for critical minerals and the need for investments in the same value chains. The 13th ZAMI comes at a time when the country is working towards Vision 2030 through the National Development Strategy 1 that is coming to an end in 2025 and the 12 billion Mining Economy by 2023 that was achieved resulting in legal reforms that we celebrate today. Zimbabwe is experiencing a drought due to the Elnino Effect increasing poverty levels in communities and negatively impacting the agricultural sector and exerting pressure on the mining sector. 1.5 Acknowledging and appreciating the efforts being made by the Government of Zimbabwe to increase transparency and accountability in the mining sector by undertaking responsible mining audits and promoting value addition and beneficiation in the mining sector. Grateful that the Government of Zimbabwe launched the 2nd Responsible Mining Audit which is a key tenant in environmental social governance compliance and reducing the costs of Mining on the environment and communities. 1.6 Cognizant that the 2024 ZAMI was convened at a critical time when laws and policies on mining and environmental management are being reformed and amended, including the Mines and Mineral Amendment Bill, Environmental Management Act, Minerals Development Policy, Climate Change Bill, the Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining Strategy and the lapse National Development Strategy 1 in 2025. 1.7 Reaffirming that God has given our nation enough resources to ensure sustainable development for a prosperous Zimbabwe if we exercise good stewardship. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1). 1.8 Concerned by the increased environmental degradation caused by unsustainable resource extraction, elevated competition between resource extraction and other land uses, the lack of open beneficial ownership registers, exploitative global financial and tax systems, gaps in the legal and policy frameworks, gaps in benefit sharing mechanisms, lack of/and gaps in local development plans, gaps in community engagement, and ballooning mineral resource revenue leakages. 1.9 Alarmed by high escalating national debt which has surged to over US$21 billion as of June 2024, plunging Zimbabwe into debt distress. This is disproportionately hitting the poorest and marginalized societal groups as substantial fiscal resources are now earmarked for debt servicing, diverted away from critical social services like health and education. 1.10 Emphasizing that debt unsustainability has collapsed Zimbabwe’s capacity to mobilize domestic resources. Consequently, the nation is now partly relying on resource-backed loans, which are exacerbating corruption and unsustainable resource extraction. Furthermore, the Constitution section 13(4) encourages community benefit from natural resources in their locality and section 73 on environmental rights, we emphasize that government domesticate the UN General Comment 26 on children’s rights and the environment with a special focus on climate change considering the drought situation in Zimbabwe. 1.11 Worried by lucrative tax incentives awarded to mining companies while taxes on individuals are increasing exponentially. This is draining the fiscus and subduing disposable incomes thus constraining public service delivery, collapsing aggregate consumer demand, widening societal inequalities, and deepening poverty. 1.12 Distressed with the increase in water pollution cases attributed to mining, depletion of water resources, and water contamination due to uncontrolled Riverbed Mining and Siltation. In August 2024, the Government reaffirmed the Ban on Riverbed Mining due to the non-compliance which has caused water contamination and heavy metal pollution because of the use of Cyanide, Mercury, and other ore processing chemicals. PARTIES TO THE 13th ZAMI RECOMMENDED THAT: The nation should reduce reliance on borrowing by embracing strategies for domestic resource mobilization for sustainable development such as improving natural resource governance, tax policies and legislation, strengthening public institutions and public financial management, and diversification of economic activities. The government must consider empowering local community leaders to negotiate natural resource contracts with multinational mining companies by building their capacity and giving them the power to engage. Government and Ministry of Mines and Mining Development should release the Responsible Mining Audit one (1) results and include stakeholders such as communities, Civil Society Groups, District Local Government Stakeholders in the 2nd Responsible Mining Audit Processes The Government of Zimbabwe, Ministry of Finance and Investments Promotion should review the National Development Strategy 1 which is coming to an end in 2025 The government must promulgate sustainability reporting laws and policies that mandate mining companies to disclose the impact that their businesses have on the economy, environment and people The government should prioritise accelerating the realisation of NDS1 strategies in the mining sector to promote increased and sustained growth in the sector particularly on finalisation and implementation of mineral specific policy frameworks and a comprehensive review of the Gold Trade Act, Precious Stones Trade Act and amendment of the Mines and Minerals Act. The government through the Ministry

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Theological Reflections: The Role of the Church in Natural Resources Management

By Rev. Douglas Maundukuse, ZCC Economic Justice Champion – Mathew 17: KJV- Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. The concept of creation care, invites everyone to reflect on the role of people as stewards of the earth. Genesis 1:26[1], underscores humanity’s unique position as bearers of God’s image and custodians of his creation. This theological foundation highlights people’s responsibility to nurture and to safeguard the natural resources entrusted to them by God. In Zimbabwe, the biblical principle of being in a covenant with the stones of the field, as mentioned in Job 5:23[2], holds contemporary significance in the context of the country’s abundant mineral resources. The scripture must be understood as a call to recognize and honor the covenant relationship between humanity and the natural resources found in the land. Zimbabwe, known for its rich mineral deposits, including gold, platinum, and diamonds, is called to steward these resources responsibly and ethically. Just as Job was encouraged to be in a league or covenant with the stones of the field, so too are the people of Zimbabwe called to uphold a sacred pact with their mineral wealth, ensuring that it is managed sustainably for the benefit of present and future generations. This is a challenge to the people of Zimbabwe to view their relationship with the land and its resources through the lens of covenantal responsibility and stewardship. In Matthew 17:27, Jesus instructs Peter to go fishing and find a coin in the fish’s mouth to pay the temple tax for both of them. This passage highlights the importance of fulfilling one’s financial obligations, including paying taxes. The Church, drawing from this biblical teaching, has the mandate to instruct and remind mining companies and individuals in the mining value chain of their moral duty to pay taxes on their mineral proceeds. The Church’s moral authority stems from its role as a spiritual guide and moral compass in society. The Church has the mandate to advocate for transparency and accountability in financial matters, including tax payments. All individuals have to fulfill their tax obligations ethically and responsibly. Ultimately, by invoking Matthew 17:27 and emphasizing the moral imperative of paying taxes, the Church has to play a vital role in promoting ethical behavior and financial accountability among investors and mining companies involved in natural resource extraction. This advocacy contributes to a more just and equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that the community benefits from the sustainable management of its mineral wealth. The duty of the Church to advocate for equal opportunities in mining is deeply rooted in the biblical call for justice and equity. In God’s eyes, all people are equal and deserving of fair treatment and access to resources. The Church, as a moral compass in society, has a responsibility to speak out against injustices and advocate for policies that ensure that marginalized communities have equal opportunities in the mining sector. This advocacy is not just about economic fairness but also about upholding the dignity and rights of all individuals, as they are all created in the image of God. Similarly, the duty of the Church to educate people to take care of the ecosystem stems from the biblical mandate of stewardship. From the creation narrative in Genesis to the Psalms that declare the earth belongs to the Lord, Scripture consistently emphasizes humanity’s role as caretakers of God’s creation. By educating people on the importance of caring for the ecosystem, the Church is fulfilling its duty to uphold responsible stewardship and protect the environment for future generations. This education can empower individuals to make informed choices that prioritize sustainability and conservation, reflecting their reverence for God’s creation. Furthermore, the duty of the Church to give awareness to people to stay in harmony with natural resources is a reflection of the call to live in harmony with all of God’s creation. When humans are in harmony with nature, they are honoring the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living beings. By promoting this awareness, the Church inspire individuals to live in harmony with nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for God’s creation and a commitment to preserving it for future generations. In a nutshell, the theological reflection on the role of the Church in natural resource governance highlights the urgent need for responsible stewardship of God’s creation, particularly in regions like Mutasa District in Zimbabwe where challenges persist despite the abundance of gold deposits. The call for the Church to reclaim its position as a trusted convener is crucial in engaging all stakeholders within the mining industry to ensure that the minerals found in the region are translated into real value for the Mutasa community. By upholding the principles of covenantal responsibility and stewardship, the Church can play a vital role in advocating for ethical and sustainable practices in natural resource governance, ultimately promoting justice, equity, and a society where everyone enjoys holistic salvation. [1] 26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” [2] “For you will have a covenant with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you.”

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Church Community Mobilization process brings hope to the community in Buhera

STORY OF CHANGE – Chipo Kuvarega, a 32-year-old widowed woman from Mubaiwa village in Dorowa, Manicaland, once felt hopeless about the state of her community and church. Plagued by divisiveness, donor dependency, greed, and a lack of collaboration, her local church of 200 members struggled to meet its financial obligations to the Diocese, with only 14 active supporters. However, Chipo’s life would soon take a transformative turn when her local church, St Michaels Mambo Anglican Diocese of Masvingo, was introduced to the Church Community Mobilisation Processes (CCMP) initiative. This program aimed to strengthen and empower the local church to lead the charge in addressing the pressing concerns of their community. As Chipo attended the CCMP training, she experienced a profound shift in her perspective. “I’m realising that everyone has something to give. If you eat daily, you can give. Everyone is responsible to their local church and community. The Church must rise and be the light it is meant to be in the community” she stated with newfound confidence. The training had awakened her to the idea that the church and the community were intrinsically linked, and that it was their collective responsibility to bring about positive change. Ironically, the training came at a time when the community had refused to unload a truck full of bricks to renovate the local clinic. Chipo chuckled at the irony, saying, “Little did we know that it was my (as the Church) responsibility to lead in the processes that bring development to my community and the people within it.” With this newfound understanding, Chipo envisioned a transformed Mubaiwa village – one that was united, peaceful, and thriving, with the church at the forefront as the light and salt of the land. She recognized that communities in Zimbabwe were often trapped in a cycle of poverty, conflict, and marginalization, and that the CCMP initiative offered a way to break free. Through the CCMP program, Chipo and her church community were empowered to organize, mobilize, and take action to address the pressing issues they faced. The once-divided community began to come together, recognizing their collective power to bring about positive change. Chipo’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community-led initiatives that empower local churches to be the agents of change. The CCMP initiative aims to thoroughly strengthen and capacitate the local Church for self-organization and community mobilization in response to pressing community concerns by utilizing the local Church, local opportunities, and capacities. It aims to create a peaceful community in which the Church leads Holistic Salvation and keeps people like Chipo happy.

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Church and Civil Society Unite to Resist Controversial PVO Bill

By Leona Mahachi – In a bold move to safeguard the nation’s democratic freedoms, a coalition of fifty leaders from Church and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across Zimbabwe convened a high-level dialogue in  Harare on May 21, 2024 to develop a united response to the contentious Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Bill, a piece of legislation that has sparked widespread concern among Zimbabweans. The urgency of the meeting was amplified by recent public hearings on the PVO Bill, which were marred by disruptions, preventing fair participation in at least half of the sessions. These reports of violence and partisan interference, particularly in Masvingo, Gweru and Chinhoyi, showed the fragile state in which the country showing the deep rooted crevices that are threatening national cohesion. “The PVO Bill is seen as a threat to our democratic freedoms, humanitarian efforts, and national unity. While it claims to prevent financial abuses, its provisions exceed international recommendations and could unnecessarily restrict the operations of civil society organizations, said one Civil Society organisation leader.” The Church and CSOs proposed a holistic strategy to address the challenges posed by the Bill. The Immediate interventions proffered during the discussions include engaging the Parliament to call for a reconsideration of the Bill and convening a closed-door meeting with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee to discuss the disrupted hearings and present unified positions. The Church and the CSOs have agreed to strengthen coordination among CSOs and create a unified front, raise public awareness, and engage in strategic litigation and regional lobbying. The meeting also recognised the need to initiate a national dialogue to foster social cohesion and conflict transformation. “We are united in our commitment to resist the PVO Bill and promote a democratic and inclusive Zimbabwe. Through continuous dialogue and collective action, we will ensure a thriving civil society and safeguard the democratic freedoms of all Zimbabweans.” The Church CSO meeting presented a platform for constant engagements between the Church and CSOs to constantly engage and discuss issues that deal with national cohesion and good governance.

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11 years later, is the Zimbabwean Constitution a commendable document?

By Shamiso Saburi Dima – The Zimbabwe Council of Churches in collaboration with Crisis Coalition Zimbabwe convened a dialogue in which the integrity of the country’s 2023’s constitution was questioned amid numerous amendments that have effected to it 11 years after its adoption. As Zimbabwe’s 2013 constitution celebrated its 11th anniversary, a concerning reality emerged – the once-celebrated document has been repeatedly amended, undermining the very principles of democracy it was meant to uphold. The signing of the 2013 constitution was a significant milestone for the country, ushering in a new era of democratic progress. However, over the past 11 years, these amendments, often driven by political interests, have raised alarm bells among Zimbabwean citizens. Dr. Tinashe Gumbo, speaking on the role of the Church in the constitutional-making process, highlighted the Church’s involvement since 1964. He referenced the 2006 ‘Zimbabwe We Want’ document, which informed the current constitution and advocated for a shared national vision, political tolerance, and a homegrown constitution. Despite these efforts, Dr Gumbo expressed disappointment in the lack of progress. “The Church played a significant role in the development of the constitution. Documents like “The Zimbabwe We Want” informed some sections of the constitution in the hope of attaining a peaceful democratic society. Unfortunately, it has been a journey of so many promises yet little has been achieved, said Dr Gumbo. The ZCC General Secretary, Rev. Wilfred Dimingu, affirmed the Church’s continued involvement, stating that it has mobilized the public and remains the voice of the voiceless. He called for other civic organizations to join the effort to defend the constitution. “The Church has continued to play its role through mobilizing the public to attend hearings. The Church will continue to be the voice of the voiceless and continue to influence the law-making process. We need other civic organizations to come on board,” he said. Citizens acknowledged the capacity of the Church and civil society organizations to mobilize grassroots communities and promote constitutionalism and democratic principles. However, they also cited the deterioration of socio-economic rights and the shrinking of the democratic space, which they attributed to a lack of political will to implement the constitution. The continuous amendment of the constitution before the implementation of other clauses is seen as reducing the value of the document that was approved by citizens in 2013. Concerns were also raised about the centralization of power in the hands of the President, leading to an authoritarian style of government, and the failure to uphold the constitutional provision for the devolution of governmental powers, contributing to the collapse of social service delivery.   As Zimbabwe’s constitution faces a critical juncture, the nation’s citizens call for a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy, transparency, and the rule of law.  

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ZCC commemorates Africa Day in Style

By Promise Mupfigo – On May 25, 2024, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) commemorated Africa Day in style at the United Methodist Church (UMC) in St. Peters, Mutare with a sermon by by Captain Muzamba, who emphasized on the need for the participants to reflect on the story of the Ethiopian man in Acts 8:30. The congregation had the opportunity to hear a testimony from a survivor of drug abuse. The survivor shared their journey of overcoming addiction, providing firsthand information on the challenges and recovery. He indicated that he had become a social outcast, selling his belongings to buy drugs. The event also featured a diverse modelling showcase that included participants of all ages proudly flaunting their African attires. The inclusive nature of the modelling segment delivered excitement and joy to the congregation. This highlight depicted the beauty of cultural diversity within the community. During the Africa Day celebrations, the ZCC Board Treasurer, Mrs. Daphine Mudarikwa, delivered her speech highlighting the significance of the day. “Africa Day is an annual celebration that honours the rich diversity of African cultures and commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity. Today, we have come together to celebrate this important day with prayers, music, dance, preaching, and the showcasing of traditional foods and clothing as Women Ecumenical Fellowship,” Mrs. Mudarikwa remarked. She went on to express her gratitude to various individuals and groups who contributed to the success of the event. “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the ZCC, our Secretariat, as well as our Patron, Rev. Machipisa, and all the Reverends present. I also want to acknowledge the dedication of all Clergy wives, the WEF Executive, every woman in attendance, and all the youths who participated in today’s celebrations,” Mrs. Mudarikwa stated. Speaking after the event, Greater Mutare WEF Chair Mrs. Judith Muringa opined that she was impressed by the biggest turnout of people for the event and the support the Clergy is rendering to the WEF in planning their event. The Secretary, Mrs. Tafadzwa Chitiyo, concurred and laid out their next course of action, including spearheading the fight against drugs and substance abuse in schools, the community, and the church, influencing LEF-centered activities, and advocating for key emerging issues within the province.   The event was organized by the Women Ecumenical Fellowship (WEF) Greater Mutare and ran under the theme, Do you understand what you are reading?.  Over 250 participants attended from various areas within Manicaland Province, including Mutare Urban, Mutasa, and Zimunya. The congregation was comprised of men, women, and youth. The commemorations provided an opportunity for women to fellowship and share lessons on key emerging issues within the province. These included drug and substance abuse, a mental health brief, the showcasing of traditional foods, and modelling.

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A Sound Mind in a Groaning Environment

By Nyasha J. Matandi, Church of Christ Nhowe In the realm of religious teachings, having a sound mind is not only about thinking rationally and making disciplined decisions but also about exercising self-control and acting by God’s will. It entails being reasonable in our thoughts and actions and resisting the temptations of fear and irrationality. As stewards of the universe, we are tasked with nurturing and caring for God’s creation, despite the challenges presented in a world fraught with pain and disorder. While God is seen as the ultimate redeemer, humans are called to actively participate in the development, restoration, and improvement of the created world. To cultivate a sound mindset in environmental matters and safeguard God’s creation, the Church can play a pivotal role. Churches and Church-Based Organizations can offer practical knowledge on sustainable practices through faith-based workshops and lectureships. Promoting concepts such as water conservation, waste management, and environmental stewardship, can instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Educating individuals on the importance of conservation and building a sustainable foundation for all is crucial in raising awareness about the impact of human actions on the environment. Environmental degradation and climatic hazards affect not only the world at large but also the Church. Droughts, dry spells, cyclones, and loss of lives present significant challenges to religious communities. In southern Zimbabwe, severe droughts have plagued the region for the past three years, worsening conditions each year. In response to these challenges, the Church can contribute to the protection of wetlands and other important sites designated under the RAMSAR Convention. These areas play a vital role in local ecosystems and water quality, making their preservation essential for sustainable living. Promoting sustainable practices and securing the earth’s resources for present and future generations, faith-based organizations and religious groups can enhance climate resilience within communities. Encouraging a more responsible approach to environmental conservation and sustainability is key to ensuring a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Individuals and communities must reflect on how their actions impact the environment and strive towards a more sustainable future. Let us pause, reflect, and remember that every action we take has a lasting impact on Mother Nature.

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Embedding Climate Change into National Dialogue Processes

By Reginald Ngwenya – The 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) has been a significant global platform for climate change conferences. In the context of Zimbabwe, the country can leverage the Zimbabwe Council of Churches Dialogue Engagement Framework to align its national dialogue processes with the global discussions on climate change. Amongst the myriad of challenges faced by Zimbabweans is climate change which has caused ripple effects of conflicts. The El Niño effect being felt as a result of Climate change has caused water shortages, recurring disasters, and imminent starvation being farced contributing to water point conflicts and domestic and Gender-Based violence. The COP28 limitation included a lack of adequate voices from communities affected by climate change at such a high-level policy dialogue. Consequently, climate change has adversely widened the inequalities and the wedge between the elite and the poor. In the national dialogue context, Zimbabwe could use COP conferences as a platform to engage different stakeholders within the country on the importance and urgency of addressing climate change. This would involve integrating climate change concerns and commitments into the national dialogue agenda. Leveraging the ZCC engagement framework, Zimbabwe can facilitate multi-level processes that involve holding public discussions, and consultations, and engaging with various sectors such as government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure that climate change is firmly embedded in the national dialogue agenda. The ZCC National Dialogue engagement framework recognizes the provision of the platform at the community level for communities affected by the effects of climate change to be important actors in the documentation of climate change-induced conflicts. Churches provide a safe space for conversation for all demographic groups for inclusive-based dialogues on climate change. The church has structures such as Youth Ecumenical Fellowships which provide platforms for young people, as well as Women Ecumenical Fellowship which is a safe space for women cantered dialogues as these demographic groups are affected comparatively more by climate change. Through Community Dialogues, affected communities are also able to streamline climate change issues in key governance and development processes such as the budgeting process, devolution, natural resource governance, and disaster and risk management among many other processes. Dialogue at this level also doubles up as a platform for awareness raising on climate change. More so, dialogues at this level foster agency for local actors to have an understanding of their reality as well as proffer locally tailored strategies that take into cognisance of local context. At the organised society level, Civil Society Organisations with technical expertise and financial resources can be used to break down climate change technical jargon as well as to elevate community issues. In line with the COP meetings, actors at this level can mobilise resources for community members to attend these global dialogues on climate change. At this level, Church-CSO dialogues are essential for generating consensus for climate agenda in communities and with policymakers. At the policy-making level that’s when COP meetings are pivotal in having international actors as well as national governments provide policy frameworks and allocate resources towards climate change prevention, adaptions, and mitigation. Multi-stakeholder dialogues are needed even to redress global inequalities between countries of the north and those from the south towards finding sustainable and equitable solutions to climate change. In this regard, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches in partnership with the Methodist Development and Relief Agency with support from Act Alliance will provide a platform for Inter-Faith Actors to contribute to Dialogue on Climate Change action in Zimbabwe. The dialogue to be facilitated on 27 March will leverage Christian church structures and those from other faiths anchored in communities to assess the current Climate Change Adaptation efforts based on lived realities monitored by these interfaith structures. In seeking local solutions to the global challenge of climate change, the National Dialogue framework could provide a pathway towards climate change justice.

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Unveiling the Voices of Persons with Disabilities in Zimbabwe’s Pursuit of Inclusivity

By Julius Pembere – The recent series of dialogues hosted by the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, under the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD), accentuated the significant role of the Church in advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Zimbabwean society. These dialogues provided a platform for PWDs to voice their concerns, share experiences, and contribute to the ongoing review of the PWD Bill. The PWDs have welcomed the work being done by the ZCC as the dialogues have provided them with a safe platform to articulate their concerns and aspirations with the hope that it will reach the relevant stakeholders. “The Church is doing wonderful work in making sure that we are given a platform to freely air out our issues. We hope that this will help us reach the government. Improved communication channels are essential to ensure that information about disability rights reaches every corner of Zimbabwe”, said one of the participants. During the dialogues that were held in Chiredzi, Neamwa and Bubi clamoured for the establishment of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, as outlined in the PWD Bill. Participants advocated for greater representation of PWDs in the decision-making process, echoing the principles of inclusivity and equality championed by many faith-based organizations. Participants expressed concerns about the role of the Director of Disability Affairs, being an ex officio member. This arrangement may compromise the autonomy of the Commission and its ability to effectively address the needs of PWDs. The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that the Director of Disability Affairs operates independently to advocate for the rights and interests of PWDs in Zimbabwe’s devolution framework. The PWDs have expressed hope that the involvement of the Church in the dialogues on disability rights and the PWD Bill will assist them in being recognised as an important constituency in the country.

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Calls For Inclusive Recruitment, Regional Integration, and Enhanced Support to Territorial Brigades

By Vanessa Makarichi – The Zimbabwe Territorial Brigades, a crucial component of the Salvation Army’s mission, kicked off their revival weekend in Harare on March 10th, 2024. The air was charged with a sense of spiritual anticipation, as calls for Inclusive Recruitment, Regional Integration, and Enhanced Support echoed through the gathering. The weekend held immense significance as the brigades were formally commissioned, and new leaders from various regions of the country were appointed to lead their respective units. Assistant Chief Secretary Colonel Henry Chitanda delivered a powerful message to the new leaders, urging them to fulfil their roles with unwavering dedication and in a manner that reflects God’s glory. He assured them that any doubts or questions they may have would be addressed promptly. “A leader must walk uprightly so that God may be glorified. Take up your positions without fear, knowing that all your concerns will be taken care of,” Colonel Chitanda encouraged the new leaders. Major Foroma, another prominent figure at the event, emphasized the importance of standing firm in Christ. He reminded brigade members of their identity and purpose in Him, urging them to rely on Jesus as their ultimate guide and leader. “As these new leaders step into their roles, they must stand firm in Christ Jesus, for He is the ultimate leader of us all,” Major Foroma emphasized. The revival weekend continued with fervour and enthusiasm, as the Zimbabwe Territorial Brigades prepared to embark on their mission with renewed passion and commitment. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity and purpose, as leaders and members alike embraced their calling to serve God and their community through the Salvation Army.

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