The Gukurahundi consultative meetings will be guided by a manual and handbook developed by Government to facilitate the processes.
Authorities have set aside funds for the programme, which is expected to aid national healing and reconciliation following civil disturbances that rocked parts of Zimbabwe in the 1980s.
Hearings will be led by over 70 traditional chiefs from Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Midlands provinces to identify people directly and indirectly affected by the disturbances, capture their views and establish community-led solutions.
Attorney-General Mrs Virginia Mabiza said, “I am pleased to inform you that significant progress has been made to commence nationwide consultations to address historical grievances related to Gukurahundi.
“Demonstrating its commitment to confronting the issues surrounding Gukurahundi, the Government has allocated a dedicated budget to initiate these consultations.
“In addition to the budget allocation, I am delighted to announce that a comprehensive manual and handbook have been developed to guide the outreach programme. The manual and handbook serve as essential guiding frameworks, ensuring transparency, inclusivity and effectiveness throughout the consultation process.”
Mrs Mabiza said the processes were meant to create platforms for dialogue and reconciliation.
“The hearings regarding the issues surrounding Gukurahundi hold immense significance for national peace and healing in Zimbabwe,” she said. “They will provide an opportunity to acknowledge and address historical grievances related to Gukurahundi by promoting truth and reconciliation. Furthermore, by providing a space for victims and their families to share experiences, the consultations facilitate healing and closure.
“Also, addressing the root causes of past conflicts through open dialogue and reconciliation efforts helps prevent similar incidents in the future and fosters unity and cohesion, whilst strengthening the social fabric of Zimbabwe.”
National Council of Chiefs president Chief Mtshane Khumalo said they were ready to start the consultations.
“Everything is now set,” he said. “We are only waiting for the President to come back to us and launch the programme. We are very happy that through the Office of the President, we received all the necessities that we need to use for the hearings.” – Online
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