4-H Zimbabwe launched the first-ever Provincial Youth Council for Peace and Development (YCPD) on July 2 at the Chevron Hotel in Masvingo. Moreover, to come up with a youth development committee in the province, where various political parties will converge and discuss their experiences pre- and post-elections.
Speaking during the launch, 4-H Zimbabwe Director John Muchenje said their organisation was mandated to create safe environments among youths to ensure development in their communities as well as amongst themselves.
He said the committee was going to spearhead development by promoting peace across political parties.
“This development committee will be the tool for promoting peace across political parties. I believe there cannot be any development when there is no peace. We will be engaging Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira so he can hear the concerns of the youths as one without political affiliations,” said Muchenje.
The launch attracted an impressive array of attendees, including representatives from several political parties, such as NCA, ZCPD, NPC, MDC, CCC, ZANU PF, DOP, and several others, highlighting the multi-partisan nature of the event.
The discussions during the meeting centred on the critical role of peace building and mutual understanding among emerging leaders.
Tawanda Mukwazhe, a representative from ZANU-PF, emphasised the significance of these platforms in cultivating effective leadership and reinforcing strong, respectful relationships among youth leaders. His insights underscored the necessity for collaboration in fostering a thriving political culture.
A representative from the CCC reinforced these ideas, sharing how the platform provides a unique opportunity to engage with members of other political factions, encouraging a climate of cooperation over conflict.
Their sentiments were echoed by an MDC youth leader, who reflected on her personal transformation. She recalled a time when animosity towards supporters of opposing parties clouded her perspective. However, through engagement in such dialogues, she developed a newfound appreciation for diversity, allowing her to advocate for her political beliefs while promoting an atmosphere of acceptance and unity.
Chirumanzu South MDC National Youth Organizer Liliosa Mujere said she was persecuted during elections time and was once blocked from participating in School Development Committee (SDC) elections.
“If you are not from the ruling party it is difficult to be part of community development programmes, I was once blocked from participating in an SDC election at our local school. During the run up to the August 2023 elections I was beaten,” said Mujere.
She applauded 4-H Zimbabwe for providing the opportunity for various political parties to meet which she said changed her perspectives about the ruling party.
“I want to thank the 4-H team for this engagement platform as the trauma which I got from the ruling party is now fading I am now realizing that not everyone is cruel, you can meet a kind person who supports growth from the ruling party,” said Mujere.