By Newton Mambande
HARARE – AS International Peace Day 2025 approaches on September 21 under the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” Zimbabwe’s own challenges highlight the urgency of this call. Economic instability and human rights concerns can undermine peace if not addressed.
Key Points in Brief
- Democracy and Human Rights: Strengthen democratic institutions, guarantee free and fair elections, and protect fundamental freedoms.
- Civil Society Participation: Create space for civil society to influence policy and hold government accountable through:
- Freedom of Speech: Safeguard open expression without fear.
- Independent Media: Support impartial outlets to promote transparency.
- Sports and Arts: Use culture and recreation to foster unity.
- Poverty Alleviation: Reduce conflict drivers by:
- Food Security: Back sustainable agriculture and smallholder farmers.
- Climate Resilience: Invest in practices that withstand climate change and protect natural resources.
- Gender & Youth:
- Gender Equality: End gender-based violence and open leadership and economic opportunities to women.
- Youth Empowerment: Provide education, skills training, and jobs to involve young people in peacebuilding.
- United Nations Support: Engage with SDGs, Peacebuilding Commission programs, and UN Peacekeepers for international backing.
Zimbabwe’s democratic landscape remains troubled by contested elections, limited freedom of speech, and persistent human rights issues. Strengthening institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes are critical steps toward lasting peace.
Civil society organizations must have the freedom to operate and contribute to national development. Protecting free expression, supporting independent journalism, and harnessing the unifying power of sports and the arts will build social cohesion.
Poverty continues to drive conflict. Addressing food insecurity, promoting sustainable farming, and improving climate resilience are essential to stability.
Gender equality and youth empowerment are equally vital. Ending gender-based violence, ensuring equal access to education and economic opportunities, and providing young people with meaningful work will help prevent unrest and unlock human potential.
The United Nations offers frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals and Peacebuilding Commission that Zimbabwe can tap into for technical and financial support.
Conclusion
International Peace Day is a reminder that peace begins at home. By reinforcing democracy, supporting civil society, reducing poverty, and empowering women and youth, Zimbabwe can move toward a more peaceful and prosperous future.
Newton Mambande is an entrepreneur and researcher. Contact: newtonmunod@gmail.com | WhatsApp/Call +263 773 411 103.
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