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Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter
THE late Vice-President, John Landa Nkomo’s significant contributions to peace-building, unity and reconciliation placed traditional leaders at the forefront of the initiative, an approach that was embraced by the Second Republic, particularly through the upcoming Gukurahundi public hearings.
In an interview on the anniversary of the passing on of VP Nkomo, his son, Mr Jabulani Nkomo reflected on how his father prioritised traditional leaders during his tenure as the head of peace initiatives following his appointment by the late former President, Robert Mugabe.
“When he was tasked with overseeing National Healing, Reconciliation and Integration, he travelled extensively across the country to engage traditional and community leaders,” Mr Nkomo recalled.
“His goal was to comprehend the underlying issues and confrontations between various groups and to seek solutions based on a thorough understanding of the problems at hand.”
Mr Nkomo emphasised that his father was not one to propose solutions before fully grasping the complexities involved.
He committed to gathering as much information as possible to effectively address the challenges. This dedication was embodied in his well-known phrase, “Peace begins with you, peace begins with me and peace begins with all of us,” a statement that has found expression in the Second Republic’s peace-building initiatives and has continued to provide national direction to a peaceful and unitary State.
“This phrase encapsulates the idea that we all share a responsibility for peace. If you can commit to wanting peace, others will feel the same, ultimately leading to a more harmonious nation,” he said, adding that he was committed to the task as he understood the importance of peace in national development.
He noted that his father held great respect for traditional leaders, recognising their pivotal role in fostering social cohesion and cultural values, which are the bricks to a peaceful society.
According to Mr Nkomo, Chiefs, headmen and village heads are essential figures within their communities, influencing and guiding their people and should never be left out in nation-building initiatives.
From his early days in politics, Mr Nkomo described his father as a humble man dedicated to fostering peace among people.
“When he was appointed by then President Mugabe to lead peace initiatives and facilitate dialogue, it was no surprise to me. He excelled in that role,” he said.
“He was a person who never burned bridges or created enemies. Those who worked with him often remind us of his diligent and peaceful approach. He was truly non-confrontational,” Mr Nkomo added.
In his message to mark the 12th anniversary of VP Nkomo’s death, President Mnangagwa urged the nation to emulate the peace-building efforts of the veteran nationalist.
He said VP Nkomo was dedicated to championing peace, adding that the Second Republic was carrying on with that legacy and was leaving no one and no place behind in its peace-building initiatives and development.
— @nyeve14
