Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
A diplomatic training workshop for Members of Parliament is currently underway in Mutare, reflecting Zimbabwe’s renewed commitment to enhancing its foreign policy through active parliamentary diplomacy.
The training aims to equip legislators with the knowledge and skills needed to engage more meaningfully on the international stage.
The initiative is part of a broader push to reposition Parliament as a key player in shaping Zimbabwe’s foreign relations.
Speaking at the official opening of the workshop, Speaker of the National Assembly Advocate Jacob Mudenda urged parliamentarians to embrace their evolving role in diplomacy, beyond their traditional duties of legislation, representation, and oversight.
“Members of Parliament, supported by Parliamentary staff, are not just lawmakers. You are also instrumental in shaping Zimbabwe’s foreign policy through parliamentary diplomacy. Diplomacy is about building peaceful coexistence among nations, and it is anchored in the African philosophy of Ubuntu , ‘I am because you are, and you are because we are.’”
He emphasised the importance of understanding international relations and the constitutional responsibilities Parliament holds in ratifying and domesticating international treaties and protocols.
Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Advocate Misheck Mugadza is convinced parliamentary diplomacy can play an important role in growing trade ties.
“The diplomatic training will capacitate legislators to protect the interests of the country and for the country’s voice to be heard on the international arena. This training is also important as it has a bearing on trade. We accrue huge benefits from improving relations with other nations.”
The country’s image continues to improve significantly under the Second Republic which has fully taken diplomacy as a powerful tool to promote peace and cordial relations with the global community.
