Story by Sifiso Sibanda
The media is expected to play a key role in the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Programme to resolve the issue of disturbances that rocked the country in the early 1980s.
The process of bringing closure to disturbances that took place in the early 1980s in Matabeleland and some parts of Midlands has moved a gear up through a process where government is engaging various stakeholders, including the media.
A media sensitisation workshop was held in Bulawayo this Thursday where Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr Nick Mangwana said the media is a key stakeholder in the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Programme.
“As chiefs engage communities on Gukurahundi issues, the media should be a part of the healing process by not being negative so that there information bears responsibility and not inflaming the already sensitive issues because this is a peace building process that is meant to bring healing,” he said.
Responding to issues raised by the media, Deputy President of the Chiefs Council, Chief Fortune Charumbira said the public hearings will be a victim-centered process.
“Let me assure you that the process which has is set to start soon will be a victim centered approach that will allow victims to express themselves freely without and intimidation,” he said.
The Gukurahundi Community Engagement Programme is being led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resolve past conflicts and promote an inclusive development agenda.
