Story by Memory Chamisa
THE Government has reiterated its commitment towards formulating supportive policies and programmes that strengthen families.
Zimbabwe is set to join the rest of the world in celebrating International Families Day this Wednesday, with focus on the contribution of the family unit to social and economic development.
Speaking on the eve of the day, the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa reiterated the crucial role families play as the basic unit of society.
“As a nation, Zimbabwe values the family unit and places paramount importance on its development and protection. The recognition of the family unit as a key vehicle for social and economic development by the Government of Zimbabwe is enshrined in Chapter 2, Section 25 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe which states that the State and all institutions and agencies of Government at every level must protect and foster the institution of the family and in particular, must endeavour within the limits of the resources available to them adopt measures for the provision of care and assistance to mothers, fathers and other family members who have charge of children and the prevention of domestic violence,” she said.
With the theme, ‘Families and Climate Change’, government continues to raise awareness on the impact of climate change on families and the role they can play in mitigation efforts.
“Through family and community initiatives, we can foster climate action with education, access to information, training and community participation. Additionally, the Ministry is tasked to lead the national launch and commemorations of the International Day of Families.
“By means of this platform, information and awareness on key developmental issues such as climate change which affect the family unit and the wider community is disseminated.
“In collaboration with development partners and stakeholders, issues affecting families in line with the international theme of Families and Climate Change will be further adopted by stakeholders and communities for mainstreaming in programme development and implementation for the greater good of the families and the nation.
“Without drastic action, adaptation to and mitigation of the impacts of climate change will become increasingly difficult and costly. Consequently, there is an urgent need for more ambitious climate action by Government, development partners and the private sector to strengthen the family’s role in the national climate response.
“Through sustainable family and community initiatives, more robust climate action can be realised for the betterment of all,” said Senator Mutsvangwa.
The International Day of Families was set aside by the United Nations more than two decades ago, as a special occasion to showcase the importance of families across all communities throughout the world, with this year’s celebrations being held in Dotito, Mt Darwin.
