By Sukoluhle Ndlovu
A US$226 000 community court has been commissioned at Chief Gwesela in Zhombe, Kwekwe District, in a move expected to bring dispute resolution closer to thousands of people in the area.
The court will serve six wards covering communal and resettlement areas with about 41 village heads.
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube officially commissioned the facility during celebrations to mark Culture Day at Chief Gwesela.
Ncube said the court would strengthen the role of traditional leaders in resolving community disputes while promoting peace and social cohesion.
“Culture safeguards indigenous knowledge systems plays a critical role in shaping society as it promotes and transmits values of Ubuntu that encompass unity, discipline, respect, integrity, hard work, responsibility, solidarity, hospitality, care for one another and peaceful coexistence,” Ncube said.
He said traditional institutions remained important in preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and resolving disputes at community level.
Ncube also urged traditional leaders to protect the rights of women, children, widows and other vulnerable members of society.
“May this Community Court stand as a beacon of justice, peace, reconciliation, hope, community confidence and a practical example of how local initiatives contribute towards national priorities,” he said.
He commended the private sector and other stakeholders who contributed to the construction of the court, saying partnerships with Government and traditional institutions were important in addressing challenges facing communities.
The commissioning of the court coincided with the commemoration of Culture Day in Zhombe.
