Story by Patience Nyagato
Government is embarking on a nationwide consultation process to gather public input on the implementation of the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
The consultations, scheduled to take place from July 29 to August 6, will cover key areas such as food security, housing, education, healthcare, social security, water and sanitation.
Speaking to ZBC News, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Mrs Vimbai Nyemba said the consultations will inform a supplementary report that will be submitted to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human rights in response to the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
“In this regard, our country is called upon to respond to these issues and submit a comprehensive supplementary report by 31 October 2024. In an unwavering commitment to uphold and promote the rights enshrined in the Covenant, Zimbabwe has embarked on the crucial task of drafting detailed responses This initiative aims to provide a transparent and thorough assessment of the current state of implementation of these fundamental rights. To ensure a robust and inclusive response, the Inter-Ministerial Committee and International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights will conduct a series of stakeholders,” she said.
Mrs Nyemba also explained how and when the consultations will be held and the benefits the nation will accrue from the results.
“These consultations will be held in municipal and community halls across the nation, covering Chinhoyi and Marondera on 29 July 2024, Kadoma and Mutare on 31 July 2024, Chipinge on 1 August 2024, Kwekwe on 2 August 2024, Gweru and Beitbridge on 5 August 2024, Masvingo on 6 August 2024, Lupane on 7 August 2024, Gwanda on 8 August 2024, and Bulawayo on 9 August 2024.
“We cordially invite all civil society organisations to participate in these consultations. Your valuable insights and perspectives will be of great help to the development of the Covenant. The Covenant will play a crucial role in shaping Zimbabwe’s response to the list of issues and supplementary report. Let us collaborate to pave the way for a future where the economic, social, and cultural rights of all Zimbabweans are fully realised and safeguarded. The IMC, HRR, and HF looks forward to your enthusiastic participation and contributions during this pivotal moment in our collective journey towards human rights excellence,” she highlighted.
The Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights is an international agreement aimed at ensuring that all individuals have the right to an adequate standard of living, including food, clothing, housing, healthcare, education, and social security.
