On Friday, September 27th, 2024, the Centre for Conflict Management and Transformation (CCMT) marked the International Day of Peace with a vibrant celebration together with the Muchakata community in Chiwundura, Gweru. The event centred around the theme "Cultivating a Culture of Peace," and it was a day filled with activities aimed at promoting peace and unity.
Muchakata residents dancing to the music on International Day of Peace Commemoration
Photo cred: Cyril Mushambi
The International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21st, serves as a global platform for communities, civil society organizations, and individuals to reaffirm their dedication to peacebuilding efforts. CCMT, in collaboration with the Muchakata community, utilized this significant day to rekindle their commitment to fostering peace and harmony within their community.
One of the highlights of the event was the inclusion of sports activities as a means to promote the values of peacebuilding such as teamwork, unity, respect, and tolerance. By engaging in sports, CCMT aimed to inspire the Muchakata community to strive for a ‘just society and sustainable peace’, aligning with the year's theme of “cultivating a culture of peace”.
Netball and Soccer games in Muchakata
Photo cred: Cyril Mushambi
The celebration was a colourful and lively affair, featuring local artists sharing their musical talents and poets delivering poignant verses that resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of peace. The presence of civil society organizations, traditional leaders, local authorities, and government representatives further amplified the significance of the occasion.
Chief Bunina Chisadza, the guest of honour, delivered a compelling speech stressing that peace begins with individuals and extends to influence entire communities, urging traditional leaders to champion peace within their areas of influence.
Guest of Honour, Chief Bunina Chisadza
Photo cred: Cyril Mushambi
"Today, we gather to celebrate the International Day of Peace, a day dedicated to fostering a world free from violence and conflict. As traditional leaders, it falls upon our shoulders to ensure our communities are havens of Peace. Peace, like a ripple in a pond, begins with each of us and extends outward to influence the entire community.” Said Chief Bunina.
The event also served as a platform to commemorate a significant milestone in the community's history. After a prolonged conflict between the Vungu Rural District Council (VRDC) and the community of Muchakata regarding the expansion of the growth point, an agreement was reached in May this year. Eleven affected families signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with VRDC, allowing for development to proceed while ensuring fair and agreed-upon compensation for the affected families. This achievement, which saw peace prevailing and development moving forward, was a pivotal moment that merited remembrance and celebration on the International Day of Peace.
CCMT's dedication to celebrating the International Day of Peace with the communities they work with was evident in their previous engagements, having celebrated in Gokwe South and Mberengwa in previous years before choosing Muchakata for this year's commemoration.
Doctor Sillah, a CCMT board member, emphasized the intrinsic link between sports and peace, highlighting the choice to commemorate the day with a sports event and reaffirming their commitment to fostering peace within the community.
CCMT Board Member, Dr R Sillah
Photo Cred: Cyril Mushambi
“Sports and Peace are inextricably linked. Recognizing this, we chose to commemorate the International Day of Peace in Muchakata with a sports event. Sports embody principles and values that can also be applied to peacebuilding. Since 2009, we have been working tirelessly in Gweru to foster peace and resilient communities. Today, as we celebrate the global recognition of peace, we want to honour our past achievements and reaffirm our commitment to continue this work until peace becomes a community-wide reality. Let us enjoy this day and cultivate a culture of peace." explained Doctor Sillah.
The sports activities, including football and netball matches, were a testament to the community's enthusiasm and commitment to peace. Participants showcased their talents while embracing the spirit of friendly competition, all in support of the overarching goal of cultivating a culture of peace.
Highlights from Muchakata International Day of Peace Celebrations
Photo cred: Cyril Mushambi
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