A top United Nations official has challenged Zimbabweans to work for peace. REPORT BY TATENDA KUNAKA & MICHAEL CHINGARANDE
Addressing delegates at the International Day of Peace commemorations in Harare, UN resident coordinator and UNFPA representative, Basile O Tambashe said the UN supported the strengthening of a national mechanism for peace-building in Zimbabwe.
“United Nations is doing a great job in Zimbabwe of supporting the strengthening of national mechanism for peace-building and for prevention, management and conflict under the Zimbabwe UN development assistance framework for 2012-2015,” said Tambashe.
Tambashe said the UN supported the promotion of peace and tolerance for the betterment of society.
“Peace has to be embraced at all levels of society if development is to be successful, leading to a sustained reduction in poverty and higher levels of human development, “said Tambashe.
He said the organisation would remain committed in supporting Zimbabwe.
Tambashe also delivered the message of the day on behalf of the UN secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon.
The Minister of information and Publicity, Webster Shamu, who was standing for the guest of honour, vice-president John Nkomo, urged political leaders to champion peace in the country.
“I am urging political leaders in Zimbabwe and across the globe to champion peace for national development and support the work done by the UN,” said Shamu.
Co-minister of the organ for national healing, reconciliation and integration, Sekai Holland, said people should embrace tolerance before challenging the local leadership to be exemplary.
The commemorations were graced by government officials, people from across the political divide and schoolchildren.
The international day of peace was held under the theme: sustainable peace for a sustainable future.