News / Local
Gukurahundi hearings set to begin
4 hrs ago | Views
The much-anticipated Gukurahundi hearings, under the Matabeleland Peace-Building Outreach Programme, are edging closer, with the steering committee expected to announce the official start date soon. A newly established coordination centre in Bulawayo will serve as the hub for all operational, administrative, and logistical needs, signaling a significant step towards the commencement of the hearings.
Attorney-General Mrs. Virginia Mabiza, who heads the secretariat for the hearings, revealed that key milestones were achieved during a recent steering committee meeting in Bulawayo.
"The meeting was highly productive, achieving several important milestones necessary for the success of the upcoming hearings. One of the primary outcomes was the finalisation and endorsement of a coordination centre," she said.
To ensure a streamlined process, the committee has approved standardised templates for documentation and engagement, enabling consistency and sensitivity in recording testimonies and feedback. A comprehensive communication and awareness strategy has also been devised to inform communities about the hearings.
Recognizing the sensitive nature of the hearings, arrangements have been made to provide counselling and support services to participants. Mrs. Mabiza emphasized the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment, noting that all participating traditional chiefs have undergone extensive training to equip them with the tools necessary for conducting effective sessions.
"As we near completion of these key preparatory steps, we anticipate announcing an exact start date soon after conducting final checks confirming readiness across all fronts. We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering support as we collectively address this significant chapter in our history," she said.
The hearings will be spearheaded by more than 72 traditional chiefs from Matabeleland North and South provinces. They will engage directly with individuals and communities affected by the disturbances of the early 1980s, capturing their views and grievances. The chiefs are also tasked with facilitating community-led solutions to promote reconciliation and healing.
Chief Mtshane Khumalo, president of the Chief's Council, highlighted the importance of these hearings in fostering national unity.
"These hearings are crucial for national healing and reconciliation, particularly in the southern region. Victims will have a platform to speak out and advise on what should be done to address their grievances. This will provide a clearer picture of how the issue can be resolved," said Chief Mtshane.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has made addressing the Gukurahundi issue a priority since assuming office. His administration has taken steps such as issuing birth certificates and national identity cards to affected individuals in the Matabeleland region.
He has also engaged traditional leaders and other stakeholders in open dialogue on the matter, demonstrating a commitment to resolving the issue in a way that prioritizes reconciliation and the needs of affected communities.
The hearings are expected to provide a platform for dialogue, fostering understanding and healing while charting a path toward national unity and peace.
Attorney-General Mrs. Virginia Mabiza, who heads the secretariat for the hearings, revealed that key milestones were achieved during a recent steering committee meeting in Bulawayo.
"The meeting was highly productive, achieving several important milestones necessary for the success of the upcoming hearings. One of the primary outcomes was the finalisation and endorsement of a coordination centre," she said.
To ensure a streamlined process, the committee has approved standardised templates for documentation and engagement, enabling consistency and sensitivity in recording testimonies and feedback. A comprehensive communication and awareness strategy has also been devised to inform communities about the hearings.
Recognizing the sensitive nature of the hearings, arrangements have been made to provide counselling and support services to participants. Mrs. Mabiza emphasized the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment, noting that all participating traditional chiefs have undergone extensive training to equip them with the tools necessary for conducting effective sessions.
"As we near completion of these key preparatory steps, we anticipate announcing an exact start date soon after conducting final checks confirming readiness across all fronts. We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering support as we collectively address this significant chapter in our history," she said.
Chief Mtshane Khumalo, president of the Chief's Council, highlighted the importance of these hearings in fostering national unity.
"These hearings are crucial for national healing and reconciliation, particularly in the southern region. Victims will have a platform to speak out and advise on what should be done to address their grievances. This will provide a clearer picture of how the issue can be resolved," said Chief Mtshane.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has made addressing the Gukurahundi issue a priority since assuming office. His administration has taken steps such as issuing birth certificates and national identity cards to affected individuals in the Matabeleland region.
He has also engaged traditional leaders and other stakeholders in open dialogue on the matter, demonstrating a commitment to resolving the issue in a way that prioritizes reconciliation and the needs of affected communities.
The hearings are expected to provide a platform for dialogue, fostering understanding and healing while charting a path toward national unity and peace.
Source - the sunday mail
