Bulawayo urged to unite in peace building

Mabel Khumalo

Calls have been made for Bulawayo residents to refrain from violence and work together towards building a peaceful city in the run up to the 2023 elections period.

Speaking at the annual  commemoration of the International Day of Peace hosted by the Zimbabwe Christian Alliance (ZCA) at Lobengula Brethren in Christ Church under the theme ‘End Racism, Build Peace’  Honourable Minister of State for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Judith Ncube said, “Let us find peaceful ways of solving our differences no matter how big they are.

It pains me when I hear stories of people killing each other with axes and knives and causing unnecessary loss of life,” she said.

She added  that harmony leads to economic growth. ’A peaceful city attracts investors, as a result we as Bulawayo residents should put our house in order,” she said.

Deputy Mayor Mlandu Ncube said all residents in Bulawayo should play an active role in building a peaceful city for generations to come.

 ‘As the city of Bulawayo we should all contribute to peace building. If we can maintain cleanliness in the city we can maintain peace by avoiding diseases,” he said 

Principal of the Theological College of Zimbabwe Rev Dr Ray Motsi encouraged all leaders to practice tolerance and equality.

 “The government and local authorities must build structures that enable peace. We appeal to the government to promote transparency and make its structures inclusive to accommodate everyone. This is what brings about peace,” said Motsi.

He also called upon all political parties to avoid violence in the upcoming 2023 elections. “I appeal to all of us that we have a role to play in leaving a legacy of peace to future generations,” he added.

ZAPU’S Andrew Ndlovu said everyone is entitled to choose a political party of their choice and that choice should be respected and not used as a basis for political violence.

A youth representative told the gathering that charity begins at home and therefore, to build a peaceful nation, parents should play their role of teaching children not to resort to violence to settle differences. 

“Parents do not use violence when disciplining your children because your actions will become the source of their violent behaviour in future,” he said.

The event which was graced by religious leaders, different political parties, youths and members of various church religions was marked by candle lighting and the signing of the peace pledge which read, “I promise to promote inclusivity and build peace. ‘