Thembelihle Mhlanga
In a significant step toward grassroots empowerment, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) hosted a transformative Capacity Enhancement Training on October 17-18, 2024, in Bulawayo.
This initiative, part of the Action for Improved Transparency and Accountability for Inclusive Development (AIT&AID) project, aimed to equip local organizations and authorities with vital skills to actively engage in local economic development.
The training attracted a diverse group of stakeholders from faith-based organizations, community groups, civil society, and government ministries, all committed to promoting transparency and accountability in development initiatives.
The objectives were ambitious yet clear: empower rights holders and duty bearers, enhance the capabilities of community-based organizations (CBOs) and faith-based organizations (FBOs), and develop effective advocacy strategies for economic justice.
Enock Tapiwa Zivovoyi, a director in the Ministry of Local Government, underscored the need for grassroots involvement in governance. “It is crucial for community members to engage in governance from the village level,” Zivovoyi stated, highlighting the role of Village Assemblies as essential communication channels between citizens and authorities.
A key highlight of the training was a session led by Dr. Wayne Malinga, an advocacy expert. He provided participants with crucial tools and strategies for effective advocacy. “Understanding advocacy and utilizing the right tools can make a significant difference in how CBOs and FBOs influence policy,” Dr. Malinga emphasized, urging participants to harness their collective power to address economic injustices.
Interactive workshops further enriched the training experience, fostering discussions on community organizing and policy analysis. These collaborative sessions aimed to empower participants to share insights and develop actionable strategies tailored to their organizations.
A major outcome of the training was the creation of a comprehensive organizing strategy, equipping CBOs and FBOs to engage meaningfully in economic justice advocacy. Participants left with a renewed understanding of their roles and the tools at their disposal to advocate effectively for their communities.
The AIT&AID project, under which this training was conducted, seeks to bolster the capacity of various social actors to collaborate effectively. By enhancing the skills of CBOs, FBOs, and local authorities, the project aspires to foster a more inclusive governance framework that addresses local community needs.
As Zimbabwe grapples with complex socio-economic challenges, the role of civil society in advocating for transparency and accountability becomes increasingly vital. The ZCC’s initiative represents a pivotal step in empowering local organizations to assert their voices and drive community-focused development.
The Capacity Enhancement Training organized by the ZCC in Bulawayo marks a crucial milestone in uniting diverse social actors for collaborative governance. With the knowledge gained from this training, CBOs and FBOs are better prepared to advocate for economic justice and contribute meaningfully to their communities. As Zivovoyi aptly stated, “When communities come together, they can drive change from the ground up.”
