mbulelo smpofu
Gibson Mhaka, Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE historic Unity Accord, signed on December 22, 1987, is an important part of our national calendar and is imprinted in Zimbabwe’s history as a watershed event that forged a strong bond of peace and togetherness across the country, uniting two prominent liberation movements, Zanu and Zapu, under the banner of Zanu-PF.
The Unity Accord signed by the country’s founding fathers, the late President Robert Mugabe and his deputy Dr Joshua Nkomo, was part of a long-lasting domestic initiative meant to unite the people of Zimbabwe and to bring harmony to the nationalist formations of our armed struggle.
This year marks 37 years since the signing of the Accord.
The Second Republic, under the stewardship of President Mnangagwa, has been committed to ensuring the values of the Unity Accord are upheld.
The people-centred policies and programmes initiated by the Second Republic are evidence of this commitment.
In the Second Republic, the values of the Unity Accord have been reinforced through various people-centred policy interventions, institutions, and development initiatives spearheaded by President Mnangagwa.
A case in point is the launch by President Mnangagwa of the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Outreach Programme, a series of community hearings designed to resolve the sensitive and long-standing issue of the Gukurahundi disturbances of the 1980s.
The aim is also to bring closure to the 1980s disturbances that took place in Matabeleland and some parts of the Midlands provinces.
This initiative marks a significant step towards understanding that part of the nation’s narrative, paving the way for a long-awaited path to healing, reconciliation, and closure.
For decades, the spectre of Gukurahundi cast a long shadow over Zimbabwe. Deep-seated bitterness and tribal tensions were attributed to the prolonged silence surrounding Gukurahundi.
Therefore, the celebration of National Unity Day is reflective of the monumental journey that the Second Republic, under President Mnangagwa, has affirmed its commitment to address this through a community engagement process that is being led by chiefs.
Speaking during the launch of the outreach programme in Bulawayo in July this year, President Mnangagwa said that, as a responsible government, it has taken it upon itself to foster healing, peace, and unity through a home-grown solution.
“Today we are gathered to officially launch the Gukurahundi Community Outreach Programme.
“This exercise is not simply a mechanism for revisiting grievances, but it is a transformative odyssey, a pilgrimage towards healing and national cohesion,” said President Mnangagwa.
He added, “This initiative is a potent symbol of our collective will to bridge the divides that have separated us for too long. It places the onus of healing squarely on the shoulders of its most capable custodians — our esteemed Chiefs.”
President Mnangagwa stressed that the road ahead will be paved with open dialogue, facilitated by our Chiefs.
“This process may provoke tears, but they will be tears of catharsis, tears that cleanse the soul and pave the way for healing.”
The decision to have the chiefs lead the outreach process was made after extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including civil society organisations and faith-based organisations.
A consensus emerged that traditional leaders are uniquely suited to lead this process.
Traditional chiefs, being deeply rooted in their communities, can facilitate open and honest dialogue without fear of reprisal.
It is clear that the launch of the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Outreach Programme by President Mnangagwa is a significant step towards national healing and reconciliation in Zimbabwe.
For decades, the disturbances of the 1980s that took place in Matabeleland and parts of the Midlands provinces have cast a long shadow over the nation, leaving deep wounds and fostering bitter divisions.
By initiating this programme, the government acknowledges the historical trauma and suffering experienced by the victims and their families.
This acknowledgment is crucial for the healing process.
The programme is also designed to offer a platform for victims to share their experiences, seek justice, and find closure.
It provides a space for open dialogue and understanding, which is essential for reconciliation.
The primary goal of the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Outreach Programme, like that of the Unity Accord, is to promote national unity and strengthen the social fabric of Zimbabwe by addressing the root causes of past conflicts and promoting inclusive dialogue and reconciliation.
This is also a clear indication that the Second Republic is committed to upholding the values of the Unity Accord by addressing the Gukurahundi issue.
By initiating this outreach programme, the Government aims to foster healing, reconciliation, and national unity. This significant step demonstrates a recognition of the past and a commitment to a brighter future for Zimbabwe.
Some of the Government’s interventions, aligned with the ethos of the Unity Accord, include the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which ensures that no one and no place is left behind in Zimbabwe’s development and growth trajectory.
This aligns with the Unity Accord’s vision of a united and prosperous Zimbabwe, where all citizens benefit from economic growth and development.
As we celebrate the Unity Accord, it is crucial to remember that peace, development, and reconciliation are at the cornerstone of this historic agreement.
The Second Republic, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, remains committed to upholding these values and addressing the historical injustices of the past, such as Gukurahundi. By embracing the spirit of the Unity Accord and working together, Zimbabwe can build a brighter future for all its citizens.
