Silethemba Mlauzi
In a move that promises to revitalize local governance in Nketa, Bulawayo the Matabeleland Institute for Human Rights (MIHR) is taking a hands-on approach by equipping garden committee members with the tools they need to lead effectively.
These committees, crucial for community development in Nketa’s suburbs (6, 7, 8 & 9), have often been hampered by a lack of formalized structures and democratic processes. MIHR’s intervention aims to change that.
On July 2nd, MIHR conducted a comprehensive training session for 64 garden committee members. The curriculum covered essential topics like advocacy, leadership, human rights, and conflict management.
MIHR’s representative emphasized the importance of grassroots democracy, stating: “Empowering local structures with democratic tools fosters community harmony and sustainable development. We aim to cultivate a culture of democratic participation, governance, conflict resolution, and leadership renewal.”
This session marks a significant milestone, bringing the total number of trained committee members to 107 since July 1st. The training is facilitated through MIHR’s ALERT CENTRE, a hub dedicated to equipping communities with the knowledge and skills for effective advocacy and civic engagement.
The training underscores the importance of a grassroots approach to local governance. By empowering garden committees, MIHR is paving the way for more inclusive decision-making and positive change in Nketa.
MIHR’s commitment to marginalized communities extends beyond training. They remain dedicated to supporting social accountability and civic engagement initiatives throughout Zimbabwe.
Nomalanga Ncube, a committee member who participated in the training, echoed the community’s sentiment: “Our communities deserve transparent and participatory governance. We are eager to engage our members and shape our garden structures democratically, ensuring unity and progress for all.”
With MIHR’s support and the newfound enthusiasm of community leaders like Ncube, Nketa’s garden committees are well on their way to becoming beacons of local democracy and development.
