|
Back to Index
This article participates on the following special index pages:
Inclusive government - Index of articles
Healing
a nation one step at a time
Crisis
in Zimbabwe Coalition
June 14, 2010
A journey of
1000 miles begins with a single step. This adage has proved true
in the work of a Non governmental organization (NGO). Heal Zimbabwe,
which has taken the first bold step towards healing a nation traumatized
by years of political instability. While the Inter-party
Political Agreement (IPA) constituted organ on National Healing
remains mum on the fate of the victims of political violence, Heal
Zimbabwe Trust has embarked on activities, which unify communities
and bring healing to affected families.
Heal Zimbabwe began the
process of rebuilding and restoring the nation in May 2009 by providing
blankets, radios and plates to survivors of political violence,
assisting widows to start self help projects and paying school fees
for children left behind by deceased victims.
On the 8th of June 2010,
the organization took a step further in the politically volatile
district of Muzarabani, Mashonaland Central by holding memorial
services for victims of politically motivated murdered during the
June 2008 violent electoral period. Seven memorial services were
held in the destrict for the late, Tendai Chisenga, Charles Mutendebvure,
Zondai Chapekana, Givemore Kanodeweta, Fana dhlamini, Toas Gatsi
and Master Kachiwaire who were murdered at bases in Muzarabani.
Muzarabani is one of the worst affected areas in Zimbabwe with 22
recorded deaths and numerous cases of arson during the run up to
the 27 June 2008 elections.
In an interview with
The catalyst, Heal Zimbabwe Trust Director Rashid Mahiya stated
that the national healing programme has sparked discussions on the
way forward in issues of traditional justice and national healing.
He further noted that the government designed Organ on national
Healing is yet to begin activities in communities, presenting a
challenge as most people in those communities are eagerly awaiting
the beginning of the process.
Quizzed on the importance
of the Heal Zimabbwe Trust national Healing programme, Mr. Mahiya
said, 'For the families it is recognition of the importance
and contribution of the fallen to the democratization of Zimbabwe.
Our programme is restorative in that it tries to restore some dignity
to the families of the deceased without deliberately provoking the
perpetrator; it deals with the victim and the needs of families
left behind. We also seek to restore community and traditional relationships
and practices, which define an African and a Zimbabwean.
He however noted that
the people of Muzarabani remain traumatized and apprehensive. To
date, the Muzarabani Community lives in constant mistrust, fear
and uncertainty,' said Mahiya.
Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition
commends the bold step taken by the heal Zimbabwe Trust and implores
upon the government of Zimbabwe through the Organ of National healing
to take a leaf from the organization and turn its words and policies
into tangible results.
Visit the Crisis
in Zimbabwe fact
sheet
Please credit www.kubatana.net if you make use of material from this website.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License unless stated otherwise.
TOP
|
