By Chantelle T Muzanenhamo
Beitbridge District Development Coordinator (DDC) Ms. Sikangezile Mafu has commended the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs for its innovative constitutional awareness program, emphasising that promoting the constitution is a shared responsibility among all stakeholders in Matabeleland South province.
Speaking at the Constitutional Awareness Meeting on Language Speaking areas, Ms. Mafu expressed her appreciation for the Ministry’s efforts in designing the awareness program, an initiative that will significantly contribute to promoting public awareness of the constitution, encouraging positive social mobilisation, and shaping behaviors that foster civic responsibility.
“We applaud the ministry for designing the constitutional awareness program and embracing all players in the province,” she said.
Furthermore, Ms. Mafu highlighted the importance of collective engagement in fostering civic awareness and empowerment within the community, as well as the need for active participation from various community members to ensure that constitutional values resonate throughout local authorities.
“We are positive that the people of Matabeleland South province understand that the mandate of public promotion of the constitution is not the task of the Ministry alone but of all the stakeholders gathered here today,” Ms. Mafu stated.
The meeting, described as a “train the trainers” program, aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for constitutional literacy and awareness.
Ms. Mafu noted, “If we do that, we will be empowered as a province and deepen our sense of ownership of the constitution.”
As the constitutional awareness program unfolds, the emphasis on shared responsibility and active participation sets a promising precedent for other provinces in Zimbabwe, showcasing the potential for community-driven initiatives to enhance constitutional understanding and civic pride.