Bulawayo Mayor calls for effective dialogue in Zimbabwe’s development
Providence Moyo
Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart, recently emphasized the importance of dialogue in driving development in Zimbabwe during the launch of the DP4P Consortium at Bulawayo Holiday Inn on Wednesday.
This new consortium, a collaboration between The Zimbabwe Institute and Diverse Pathways 4 Progress (DP4P), aims to promote inclusive governance, constitutionalism, and national reconciliation.
“Dialogue is the cornerstone of development,” Coltart stated. “We must engage in difficult conversations and find common ground to move forward.”
The DP4P Consortium, comprising five organizations including the Zimbabwe Institute, Centre for Applied Legal Research, Ukuthula Trust, Zimbabwe Christian Alliance, and 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation, will implement a four-year program backed by the Swiss Development Corporation (SDC).
Their work is motivated by the goal to ensure all citizens are heard, represented, and uphold principles and values enshrined in Zimbabwe’s constitution, fostering a culture of forgiveness, healing, and unity among Zimbabweans.
Deputy Minister of Justice Nobert Mazungunye echoed Coltart’s sentiments, sharing that, “Achieving our vision requires stakeholder cooperation, which will feed into good governance through diverse pathways for progress.”
The Director of the consortium, Isaac Maphosa reinforced this, highlighting the need for difficult conversations and compromise. Swiss Ambassador to Zimbabwe Stéphane Rey also expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing Switzerland’s commitment to strengthening ties with Zimbabwe.
The consortium’s efforts align with global initiatives like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to create a more just and equitable society for all Zimbabweans. By promoting national dialogue and strengthening governance systems, the DP4P Consortium is poised to drive meaningful change in Zimbabwe’s development landscape.
