Eliminating Harmful Practices Affecting Children: Progress on Policy and Practice since 2013’.
Harare – The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) joins the rest of the African continent in commemorating the Day of the African Child (DAC). The commemoration of the DAC is mainly to recall the 1976 uprisings in Soweto, South Africa when high-school students started protesting against apartheid-inspired education which resulted in the public killing of these unarmed young protesters by police officials. Thus, as we commemorate this day, we are indeed celebrating the progress that Africa has made since the celebration of the DAC in 2013.
This year sees the celebration of the DAC under the theme, “Eliminating harmful practices affecting children progress on Policy & Practices since 2013”. The theme resonates well with the work and mandate of NANGO whose focus is to promote, co-ordinate and organise, where necessary, the participation and contributions of NGOs in Zimbabwe in the social, economic, and political development of the Zimbabwean people. The association, therefore, focuses on creating platforms where Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the community can be actively involved in policy formulation and lobby and advocate for the successful implementation of these policies to achieve the ZIMBABWEAN WE WANT. In this regard, the commemorations aim to re-evaluate the approaches, policies, programs, and legislation that have been adopted to end harmful practices by the African Union Member States since the celebration of DAC 2013. Further, the commemoration also provides an occasion for Governments, NGOs, CSOs, and other relevant stakeholders to renew their ongoing engagements towards the protection and assistance of children affected by harmful practices.
NANGO recognises the numerous policies that have been developed by the continent in a bid to deal with harmful practices affecting children at both country and continental levels. Of note are the Agenda 2030, Agenda 2040, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of Children (ACRWC), Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 (target 5.3) and Section 81 of the 2013 Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Children’s Act, Child Protection Policy among other policies, instruments, and regulations. In light of this, NANGO calls on the Government of Zimbabwe to continue adopting and promulgating policies and measures that ensure that every child is protected from violence, abuse or torture and be protected from harmful cultural practices, exploitation and all forms of abuse.
Also, the association recognises the devastating effects the covid-19 pandemic has had on the gains the children’s sector had made in terms of advancing children’s protection in Zimbabwe and Africa at large. The pandemic increased the number of school dropouts, especially in rural areas, child marriages, increased inequalities, reduced access to health services and products, and gender-based violence due to covid-19 induced lockdowns and regulations. The pandemic coupled with natural disasters and harsh economic conditions has also affected resulted in increased high inflation rates which directly impacts children’s access to basic human needs and wants such as food, shelter, quality education among other things. With the country rallying for the upcoming elections in 2023, the political environment is more prone to political violence and civil unrest and hence we reiterate the need to maintain peace and security towards this period and continue respecting basic human rights for children.
NANGO applauds the efforts that CSOs have made so far in a bid to address the many challenges affecting children across the country. To note, the recent review of the age of consent from 16 to 18 years is clearly a move in the right direction illegal child marriages. We, therefore, commend these achievements and also, aim to echo the need for CSOs to continue their work in lobbying and advocating for the respect and protection of children’s rights. In this regard, there is a need to explore more opportunities among child protection actors for dialogue, sharing of information, and sharing of values, skills, experiences, and competencies.
The association, on this day, proposes the following recommendations;
To Government:
To CSOs:
To the Media:
NANGO is the coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. It is the umbrella body for Non-Governmental Organisations and was established in 1962. It is a non-partisan, non-profit making organisation and non-denominational coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is mandated by its membership to coordinate the activities of NGOs, represent the NGO sector, and strengthen the voice of NGOs in Zimbabwe. Here is to the African Child on our Day.
For further engagement during this period please do not hesitate to get in touch with NANGO Acting Executive Director Ernest Nyimai at director.nango@gmail.com, NANGO Board Chairperson Lamiel BK Phiri at lamielbkp@gmail.com or NANGO Board Secretary Michael Ndiweni at bulawayovendors@gmail.com.
Harare – The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO), the umbrella body of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) operating in Zimbabwe joins the rest of the African continent in celebrating Africa Day. On the 25th of May 1963, Africa made history by establishing the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) the precursor to the African Union (AU). The day is intended to celebrate and acknowledge the coming together of African states as they sought to achieve greater unity across the continent, and accelerate the political, economic and socio-cultural integration of Africa as a whole. Thus, as we commemorate this day, we are indeed celebrating the successes of AU in the fight against colonialism and apartheid, as well as the progress that Africa has made since the establishment of AU in 1963.
NANGO recognises the numerous instrument that have been developed by the continent in a bid to deal with the political, economic, social and trade challenges. Of note are the Agenda 2030, Agenda 2063, Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) among others. These instruments are key to addressing extreme poverty, inequalities, conflicts and diseases on the continent. However, the implementation of these instruments was heavily disrupted by the novel coronavirus which started in December 2019. The progress that the continent had made in successfully implementing these strategies has been lost and the continent sees itself once more grappling with extreme poverty, poor living standards due to poor economies, high inequalities and increased levels of conflicts. At the moment, there exists increased conflicts across the continent due high levels of immigration as people have been forced to look for greener pastures elsewhere. As an association, we continue to request governments to find sustainable means to address these issues.
To note is the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) that was established by government of the AU and heads of state at their 18th Ordinary Session which fits well with the Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This acts as an instrumental strategy if successfully implemented and domesticated since it will result in economic growth of the continent. The African Development Bank (AFDB) estimates that if fully implemented it could boost Africa’s income by $450 billion, bring 30 million people out of poverty and raise the incomes of 68 million others who live on less than #5.50 a day. Further, the AFDB forecasts benefits such as industrialisation, increased FDI flows, reduced dumping and unfair trade practices, structural transformation and sustained growth. Thus, we advocate for the duly domestication and implementation of the ACFTA so as to achieve the Agenda 2063 and an integrated prosperous and peaceful continent.
We note that the continent, besides the coronavirus pandemic, is also suffering from the effects of climate change as evidenced by increases in natural disasters with the Southern Africa region hit by five storms after being hit by Cyclone Idai and Cyclone Kenneth in 2019. Even though these disasters occurred in different periods, they left devastating impacts on the continent with families separated with their loved ones, property destroyed, millions displaced and thousands killed. Thus, the continent is still trying to recover from these deadly storms yet the of concern is that the World Meteorological Organisation warned that up to 12 cyclones could hit Southern Africa before the end of the season.
As we celebrate Africa Day, we also take cognisant of these challenges that ravage our societies resulting in socially, economically, politically and environmentally dysfunctional societies. The unity that was demonstrated by our founding fathers, who set the foundation of the AU unity and inclusion is still as important today as it was back then. We encourage our governments to accelerate implementation of the continental instruments, which are critical in transforming our continent into the Africa We Want.
Africa is blessed with natural minerals and human resources that are key in contributing towards inclusive and sustainable development where all segments of the societies realise their social, economic, political rights in a progressive manner. We reiterate the need for more inclusive democratic processes that ensure that ‘No One is Left Behind’ and ‘No Place is left Behind’ by including women, youths, children, persons with disabilities, indigenes, elderly, amongst other disenfranchised groups and marginalised places/states. We also reiterate the need for the continent to develop effective disaster management and relief policies so as to cater for the people affected by natural disasters.
As Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) we are heavily concerned about politically motivated violence, stifling legal frameworks targeting civic organisations, politicisation of public offices, high levels of corruption, lack of transparency and accountability, legal frameworks stifling freedom of speech and freedom of the press as well as lack of trust between governments, its people and CSOs. These factors contribute significantly to shrinkage of civic and democratic space across Africa. The continent should ensure that there is a conducive civil society operating environment and strengthened synergies between government and civil society as the two stakeholders are key in driving development in Africa.
NANGO is the officially recognised coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. It is the largest umbrella body for Non-Governmental Organisations and was established in 1962. It is a non-partisan, non-profit making organisation and non-denominational coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is mandated by its membership to coordinate the activities of NGOs, represent the NGO sector and strengthen the voice of NGOs in Zimbabwe. Hunger in Africa should be confronted collectively and nutrition is key to a healthy population thus our focus in 2022. Here is to Africa on our Day.
For further engagement during this period please don’t hesitate to get in touch with NANGO Acting Executive Director Ernest Nyimai at director.nango@gmail.com, NANGO Board Chairperson Lamiel BK Phiri at lamielbkp@gmail.com or NANGO Board Secretary Michael Ndiweni at bulawayovendors@gmail.com.
Harare – The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) notes with great concern the ongoing incidents of intimidation, harassment and violence against foreign nationals, including the brutal killing of Elvis Nyathi, a father of four children, in Diepsloot in the Johannesburg metropolitan area as a domestic worker.
The murder of Nyathi came after the locals had earlier protested against increased numbers of crimes in their area which they said were being committed by foreign nationals. South Africa is home to millions of immigrants, mainly from Lesotho, Namibia, Nigeria, Zimbabwe etc. However, violence does not necessarily result in the reduction of the crime rate but rather adds to the already high numbers which is against what South African locals are fighting for.
In the recent past, movements such as Put South Africans First and Operation Dudula have forced immigrants who they suspected to be undocumented/illegal to produce their papers. Inasmuch as the locals are doing what they feel is right, it is of utmost importance to be guided accordingly and respect the Constitution of South Africa.
It is crucial to note that the South African Government has ratified several international human rights and refugee instruments that are an integral part of national law. In this regard, the human rights of all persons residing in South Africa regardless of nationality must be respected.
The association stands by recent statements by both Zimbabwean and South African Government representations who have come out and condemned actions of violence against foreign nationals. The government of South Africa has also urged its citizens to respect the rule of law and not take the law into their own hands. The denunciations are greatly appreciated but we are urging both governments to find sustainable means to deal with the issue at hand.
For interviews and media enquiries, please contact Dr Lamiel BK Phiri, NANGO Board Chairperson at lamielbkp@gmail.com or +263772394631.
Uncertainty, Abuse and Infringement of Workers’ Rights
Harare – The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) joins our nation and the rest of the world in honouring workers across the globe. It is worth noting that we are commemorating this important day in the midst of various challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, deteriorating welfare of workers in various sectors of the economies and poor working environment within different economic sectors of the nation. The day, ideally, is supposed to be a celebration of the work being undertaken by workers in different sectors as we fight to achieve the Agenda 2030 and attain sustainable development for the country and the globe at large.
The association take this opportunity to salute Zimbabwean workers and millions of their colleagues across the globe on the frontline who have continued with the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, saving lives in the process. Further, we salute our labour force for their continued dedication despite having to deal with poor working conditions, low salaries and low recognition of their work especially by those with the responsibility to ensure that workers’ needs are taken care of.
Also, NANGO take this opportunity to celebrate workers in the NGO Sector who have continuously put dedication to their humanitarian efforts even though faced with the shrinking operating environment. We are cognisant of the numerous challenges that the NGO workers are facing such as the pending PVO Amendment Bill, Covid-19 pandemic, and the decrease in funding opportunities. We appreciate the continued support that workers in the NGO sector have been offering to communities as they complement government efforts in building the Zimbabwe We Want. The service you provided exceeded all expectations. Thus, your dedication is imperative for the sustainable development of our country in the spirit of Leaving No One Behind and Leaving No Place Behind. We say “Thank you, and keep up with the good work to everyone involved”.
As we celebrate workers today, the current situation in our country reminds us of how far we have to go insofar as catering for the labour force. The covid-19 pandemic had adverse effects on the labour sector. Businesses and institutions have been forced to reduce the labour force resulting in increased unemployment rates, underemployment leading to work overload on individuals, and deteriorating welfare of workers due to reduced funding. In addition, workers’ rights have and continue to be ignored, trembled upon due to the currently prevailing circumstances. In such situations, the government is required to intervene and develop sustainable ways to cushion those affected by the current environment may it be political, economic, social or technological. The association also urge the government to address the issue of the economic meltdown and support the operating environment of the informal sector. The economy is in dire need of an economic incentive that will be supported by a zero-tolerance of corruption, nepotism, and poor corporate governance. The government need to safeguard and promote the realisation of workers’ rights.
In this regard, NANGO shares recommendations with the following stakeholders:
Employers (Private Sector, CSOs, Churches)
Employees
Government
NANGO is the officially recognised coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. It is a non-party political, non-profit making and non-denominational official coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is mandated by its membership to coordinate the activities of NGOs, represent the NGO sector and strengthen the voice of NGOs in Zimbabwe.
For further engagement during this period please don’t hesitate to get in touch with NANGO Acting Executive Director Ernest Nyimai at director.nango@gmail.com, NANGO Board Chairperson Lamiel BK Phiri at lamielbkp@gmail.com or NANGO Board Secretary Michael Ndiweni at bulawayovendors@gmail.com.
27 Feb 2022
On February 27, across the globe, we celebrate World NGO Day. As the name suggests, the day brings awareness to Non-Governmental Organisations’ (NGOs) work and those efforts that contribute to making the world a better place. These efforts often go unnoticed, so we must take this time to recognise these generous contributions.
The day established by Marcis Liors Skadmanis, a UK-based social entrepreneur, is celebrated by many across the globe. In 2014, the day became recognised by the United Nations and the European Union to pay tribute to the NGOs, Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) which perform the vital work of providing social assistance to the most vulnerable members of society and defending human rights.
World NGO Day provides an opportunity to honour and remember NGO founders, employees, volunteers, members, and supporters. There are vast numbers of individuals who have devoted themselves to the work of NGOs in many forms, from those who offer a few hours of their time to those who have sacrificed their lives for a cause they believe in.
All over the world, NGOs safeguard human rights, the rights of individuals to access basic human needs and develop effective policies through lobby and advocacy. At the national level, NGOs have been monitoring and reporting human rights violations, especially now when the perpetrators are hiding behind the Covid-19 pandemic. The day, therefore, seeks to celebrate the bravery of these people and call for an end to their persecution everywhere.
The Covid-19 Pandemic has largely directed and dictated operations, actions, and outcomes since its advent in December 2019. The pandemic has led to NGOs having to adapt to the new norm and develop new ways to implement programmes and carry out day-to-day business. Despite the shortfalls and grave detriments of the pandemic, NANGO would like to express gratitude to the NGOs across Zimbabwe for the tremendous work that they have done for society.
In the context of the Coronavirus pandemic, NGOs have been working tirelessly and providing Protective Protection Equipment (PPE). In addition, they have been instrumental in the provision of direct health services to communities as well as providing social assistance to the most vulnerable groups and hard-to-reach areas.
The day also acts as an opportunity for states to reflect on the steps they should take to create an enabling and welcoming environment for NGOs. The people who work in NGOs and CSOs are often exposed to great personal risk because of systematic harassment they experience at the hands of authorities all around the world at large.
Zimbabwean NGOs have not been an exception as they are subjected to restrictive legal, policy, and administrative instruments promulgated by the government. The restrictive environment is further compounded by the selective application of the law. The call by the regulatory authority to control NGOs has been louder by the day and the current process of reviewing the Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO) Act and the intention to enact an NGO bill all work towards constraining the civic space. The review of the PVO Act has been motivated by various reasons chief among them being the need to include the Financial Anti-Terrorist Financing (FATF) recommendations to do with Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism.
NGOs play pivotal roles ranging from financing, implementation, watchdog, and oversight, all of which contribute towards sustainable national development. This is critical in ensuring the realisation of Agenda 2030, Vision 2030, National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), and various sectoral plans. A multi-stakeholder approach is the new innovative way of partnering to deliver the development outcomes. This work can be facilitated and enhanced by an enabling environment.
NANGO is the officially recognised coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. It is the largest umbrella body for NGOs and was established in 1962. It is a non-partisan, non-profit making organisation and non-denominational coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is mandated by its membership to coordinate the activities of NGOs, represent the NGO sector, and strengthen the voice of NGOs in Zimbabwe.
31 May 2021
The French Embassy in Zimbabwe is launching its first call for proposals “Support to the resilience of vulnerable populations to economic and climate challenges” aimed at supporting Zimbabwean civil society organizations working in these areas.
This tool, dedicated to civil society’s action, belongs to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and is named “Innovative Projects from Civil Societies and Coalitions of Actors (PISCCA)”. In Zimbabwe, the French Embassy will implement it for 2 years (2021-2022) and a total amount of 600 000 USD.
This call for proposals aims more specifically to support small scale initiatives, 3 to 12 months between 10 000 USD and 50 000 USD, implemented by small and medium-sized CSO’s that address the following two themes :
The Resilience of Agricultural Systems to Climate Change and Food Insecurity
Given the increase in food insecurity in the country, the French Embassy wishes to support local and associative dynamics that aim to adapt agricultural systems to the climatic reality, with the ultimate objective of improving the living conditions of rural populations.
The Empowerment of Women to Promote their Civic, Social and Economic Rights
Gender equality is a priority for French development cooperation, which makes it a requirement for every project. By focusing on women’s social and economic integration, the French Embassy wants to be more involved with civic associations that work with this goal. To this end, particular attention will be paid to projects targeting workers in the informal sector.
Our objective with this call for proposal is also to strengthen the capacity of CSO’s in implementing local projects and initiatives.
All CSO’s interested have to submit their concept note before the 30th of June.
How to Apply
To apply, please download the concept note on the link below
https://zw.ambafrance.org/Launch-of-the-call-for-proposals-Support-to-th…
25 May 2021
Today, 25th May, the African continent celebrates Africa Day with a particular focus on Arts, Culture and Heritage. Africa Day celebrations assists in tracing, tracking and learning from the paths we have been following and taking as we united in resolving the economic, social, governance and environmental issues the continent is facing.
The National Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (NANGO), a non-party political, non-profit making and non-denominational organization is the officially recognized coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. NANGO, the country’s largest umbrella non-governmental organization joins the rest of the world in commemorating the 58th anniversary of the Africa Day running under the theme “Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa We Want.”
This year’s theme strongly acknowledges the importance of preserving and promoting the arts, culture and heritage as the greatest pinnacles in fostering a prosperous, unified and cultured society. It is also critical to note that it is through upholding cultural values such as ‘Ubuntu’ that an Integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global sphere can be achieved. The day is also coinciding with the African Continental launch of Entry into force of the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance. NANGO appreciates Zimbabwe’s membership into the African Union (AU) including the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (African Commission) and its consequent obligations to implement the AU framework and African Commission recommendations.
The broader membership of NANGO and secretariat recognizes the AU’s role in unifying the African continent to collectively address issues of unresolved historical conflicts, low levels of youth participation, civil unrests, loss of the sense of pride and belonging, insurgencies, inadequate support towards the arts and culture sectors and the growing crisis of underdevelopment across the continent. We also acknowledge Zimbabwe government’s contributions to address these issues through the establishment of heritage sites as well as the adoption of the 2013 Constitution that has provisions for the socio-economic, political and cultural rights.
This year’s celebration however comes on a back-heel of a number of issues derailing progress towards the Africa We Want. The major one is the Covid-19 pandemic which has piled up pressure on the African economy and resultantly affected the well-being, livelihoods and demographics of most African states and peoples. The Covid-19 pandemic calls for African government leaders to increase vaccination efforts on the continent after what has appeared strongly to be vaccine apathy across several countries. But defying the odds by managing to control the pandemic that has ravaged other parts of the world is in itself something to praise the continent for, a continent least impacted globally by the pandemic and this may be worth celebrating at the very least. Recently, African heads of state concluded a summit in Paris where they argued among other issues for an increase in the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) from 33 billion to 100 billion dollars. The SDR, used sparingly, gives member countries of the AU such as Zimbabwe the possibility of “drawing” liquidity to supplement financial reserves. There are also other burning issues on the continent such as the internal displacements of citizens from their places of origin, historical upbringing and heritage. There is also Mozambique’s Islamist insurgency in the North Cabo Delgado province which has led to a refugee crisis and may affect countries such as Zimbabwe that neighbour Mozambique.
In particular, whilst NANGO and other like-minded organizations appreciate efforts by the government to promote the arts, culture and heritage in the country, we continue to urge Zimbabwe to address the structural and socio-economic challenges that continue to push citizens in intruding and destroying the cultural and heritage sites such as the mountains, the caves and places of historical significance. We therefore, call upon the Government of Zimbabwe:
For further engagement please do not hesitate to get in touch with the NANGO Executive Director, Leonard Mandishara on +263774078026, NANGO Board Chairperson, Ms. Ronika Mumbire on +263712724911 and NANGO Board Secretary, Dr. Joachem Nyamande on +263784530915.
he National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO), an umbrella coordination and representative body of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) operating in Zimbabwe, is a membership-based organisation with one thousand two hundred members across the whole country. Our members are clustered into ten sectors (Women, Children, Disabilities, Economic, Youth, Land and Environment, Human Rights and Governance, Humanitarian, Health, and Media, Arts, and Culture.
Civil Society work has been key in complementing government on several programmes and actions that include response to natural disasters such as cyclones, droughts and famine, social protection support in the health, education and vulnerable groups, civic education. Furthermore, contribution to the development and implementation of national development processes such as the National Development Strategy 1, Sustainable Development Goals, and Vision 2030 amongst others.
To read more download the attachment below
Statement on CSOs shrinking operating space.pdf
17 Apr 2020
Over the past few months, nations of the world have been shaken to the core by the COVID-19 pandemic, commonly referred to as the Coronavirus, which started in China in 2019. The virus has spread across the planet claiming at least 131 000 lives globally. So severe has been the epidemic that on 11 March 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared it a global pandemic.
In order to bolster the protection and safety of humankind, governments across the globe have been instituting robust measures such as restriction of movement, mandatory testing as well as putting the affected under isolation.
Zimbabwe has been no exception as the government imposed a 21-day total lockdown that started on Monday 30 March. This followed another measure, in the form of Statutory Instrument 77 of 2020, which was gazetted by the Ministry of Health and Child Care on Monday 2 March. Statutory Instrument 77, also cited as the Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) Regulations 2020, seeks to aid the prevention, containment and treatment of Coronavirus by giving government broad powers to ban gatherings, undertake compulsory testing, quarantine individuals who would have tested positive and to arrest anyone who breaches these measures.
Suffice to note that if implemented to the book, SI 77 will have substantial negative ramifications on the socio-economic wellbeing of the vast majority of the same citizens it seeks to protect, particularly the already impoverished populations living in urban and peri-urban formal and informal settlements.
Section 8 (1) (l) of SI77 empowers government, through the Minister of Health to “authorise in any local authority the evacuation, closing, alteration or, if deemed necessary, the demolition or destruction of any premises the occupation or use of which is considered likely to favour the spread or render more difficult the eradication of such disease (Covid-19), and to define the circumstances under which compensation may be paid in respect of any premises so demolished or destroyed and the manner of fixing such compensation”.
Thus in terms of this provision, any building, including houses, can be demolished by the state if the Minister of Health and Child Care deems it to be impeding efforts to curb the spread of Coronavirus. This section is a stark reminder to Operation Restore Order/Murambatsvina of 2005, which was meant, “to restore sanity in the Housing Sector” but ended up condemning at least 570 000 people to homelessness, loss of livelihoods and several other severe vulnerabilities which most have not recovered from fifteen years down the line.
Most of these people currently live in informal urban and peri-urban settlements within and around Harare such as Epworth, Hopely as well as Bellapasie, Rest and Retreat Farms. These settlements are overpopulated and do not have refuse collection, water and sewer reticulation facilities. Residents rely on shallow wells and pit latrine toilets, most of which are within five-metre proximities. Now, these are the conditions that aided the spread of the cholera pandemic that killed thousands of people in 2008 and 2018. They are equally conducive for the spread of the current Coronavirus epidemic. This thus renders these settlements liable for demolition under Section 8 (1) (l) of SI77.
Government is fully aware of the potential of these conditions to spread communicable diseases, such as cholera and Coronavirus. This is outlined in the reports of The Commission of Inquiry into the Matter of Sale of State Land In and Around Urban Areas Since 2005 which was handed over to President Emmerson Mnangagwa by Justice Tendai Uchena at State House on 9 December last year. That is most probably why government deliberately included Section 8 (1) (l) in SI 77 of 2020, providing for demolition of any premises (including houses) the occupation or use of which may favour the spread of the Coronavirus or make difficult its eradication.
Suffice to mention that these settlements did not mushroom, grow and exist for such a long time until now without the knowledge and sometimes authorisation of the responsible authorities. Government at both central level, constituted by the ruling ZANU PF party since independence in 1980 and at local level dominated by the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC)since 2000 (in the case of Harare) have been aware and allowed these conditions to flourish. This makes both political parties culpable of commission, omission and collusion in the emergence and existence of these same settlements they may now collude to demolish using Section 8 (1) (l) of SI 77 of 2020.
These conditions are a creation of the greedy, corrupt, and inept conduct of land barons and administrators with powerful political connections and positions who enriched themselves while endangering the lives of the poor. Demolishing these houses when the culprits have not be held accountable would be a severe travesty of justice. It would also be a negation of the commitments made by both ZANU PF and the MDC Alliance in their 2018 election manifestos-to provide safe and secure housing for millions of Zimbabweans before the next election in 2023.
Suffice to note that one need to critically analyse Section 8 (1) (l) of SI 77 of 2020 in order to understand the potential dangers it poses. Firstly, its authorisation of demolition of houses that the executive would have deemed to aid the spread of the epidemic will be a violation of Section 74 of the Zimbabwean constitution which stipulates that “no person may be evicted from their home, or have their home demolished, without an order of court made after considering all the relevant circumstances.”
Secondly and more frightening is the provision that authorises the Minister of Health to “define the circumstances under which compensation may be paid in respect of any premises so demolished or destroyed and the manner of fixing such compensation”.
Assuming that demolition of any premise is undertaken, the fair thing would be to have pre-established guidelines or formulae for compensation, including timeframes within which the compensation has to be paid. This would be the fair and logical course of action given the economic volatility and hyperinflationary environment currently obtaining in Zimbabwe. A matter as critical as compensation should not be left to the discretion of the same Minister who would have authorised the demolition in the first place. This would be akin to government designating itself as the judge, jury and executioner with no accountability, which is an anathema to a constitutional democracy that Zimbabwe ought to be.
Inasmuch as containing the Coronavirus should be the topmost priority, in the quest to contain the epidemic, policymakers should also be wary of creating even bigger challenges as this would amount to the proverbial folly of kupisa imba nekuda kuuraya makonzo anetsa (burning the hut to kill troublesome rats). What use then would SI 77 be if it ends up causing house demolitions and violation of sacrosanct rights to shelter, social welfare and freedom from arbitrary evictions as ring-fenced by Sections 28, 30 and 74 of the constitution respectively.
Even though it is probable that government does not intent to demolish houses, the mere existence of this provision means it can be enforced anytime leaving several thousand citizens displaced and without shelter and access to social protection as was the case with Operation Murambatsvina. Suffice to note that the City of Harare is currently embroiled in several bitter wrangles with “illegal settlers” whose houses they have been trying to demolish only to be restrained by court interdictions. Equally, central government, through the Ministry of Lands, has been intent on demolishing houses of “illegal farm occupiers” as evidenced by issuance of seven-day eviction notices to some beneficiaries of the land reform program last year. We fear that Section 8 (1) (l) of SI77 can be capitalised upon to implement house demolition agendas that existed long before the Coronavirus epidemic.
We have seen this happening across the world, with governments capitalising on pandemics to implement policies to achieve pre-existing agendas. In their dialogue on United States policy in the Middle East, in a book entitled Perilous Power, renowned scholars Noam Chomsky and Gilbert Archcar argued that even though 9/11 attacks had no connection whatsoever with Iraq, the attacks gave the U.S under Bush Junior “a perfect opportunity and the ideological cover to invade Iraq in 2003,” something that the U.S had wanted to do from as long back as 1991.
Last week, Newsday Columnist Paida Mzulu also argued that the Coronavirus outbreak in southern Africa had given the government of South Africa the perfect excuse it needed to deal with undocumented immigrants from Zimbabwe by erecting a border fence along the Limpopo River. And in Zimbabwe, many have argued that the Coronavirus gave government an opportunity to reintroduce the United States dollar, something they had been intending to do for some time. These scenarios give credence to fears that SI77 can be used to undertake house demolitions.
In any case, without intentions to demolish buildings, why would a financially struggling government go to pains to volunteer compensation for demolition of structures? Even if the initial intention may be to demolish premises other than houses, what guarantee is there that the open cheque that Section 8 (1) (l) of SI77is will not be used to include demolition of houses. Not so long ago, we witnessed the Zuva judgement capitalized upon with devastating consequences. We should not take chances with SI 77.
The best way to pre-empt this from happening is for government to adopt a pro-poor, human rights-based approach that places marginalised citizens at the centre of Coronavirus policy formulation processes.
Last week, an Indian doctor, Peter Dreier, in a message largely circulated on social media, pointed out that most of the ways being prescribed to curb the spread of the Coronavirus, such as social distancing, hand washing and use of hand sanitisers are privileges of the rich. This view was also echoed in neighbouring South Africa, where Abahlalibase Mjondolo, a civil society movement fighting for housing rights for shack dwellers pointed out that poor people had neither participated ”in decision-making nor “been taken into consideration ”by the South African government’s strategies and measures to prevent the Coronavirus. Both views are hugely applicable here in Zimbabwe where current measures do not take into consideration the plight of the majority of Zimbabweans, especially those who live in overly populated informal settlements without access to water and sanitation facilities essential for hygiene practices to combat the Coronavirus.
Instead of contemplating demolition of houses ,the government should opt for alternative measures that are more humane. I prescribe four such measures that government, at both central and local government levels, can easily implement with the resources they already have.
Firstly, as I have already posited earlier, government should adopt a pro-poor approach in the formulation of policies and strategies to contain the Coronavirus. This should start by amending or even removing Section 8 (1) (l) from SI77 of 2020, in order to eliminate the option of demolition of premises such as houses which may be deemed to be spreading the Coronavirus or inhibiting efforts to stop it.
Secondly, government should facilitate uninterrupted access to clean portable water to all urbanites, especially in high-density suburbs and informal settlements to enable undertaking of hygienic practises such as hand washing. This measure should include suspending water cuts and rationing, and investing more in water treatment chemicals and bowsers for water delivery to those communities without piped facilities.
Thirdly, government should increase frequency and reach of refuse collection services to cover even the informal settlements that currently rely on illegal dumpsites within their communities. This should also include disinfecting the cleared illegal dumpsites in order to exterminate the germs that may spread the Coronavirus.
Last, but not least, awareness raising on the Coronavirus should be intensified through timely and consistent dissemination of accurate, truthful and scientific information pertaining to the toll of the pandemic, and how to combat it. Such information should be disseminated in all 16 official languages of Zimbabwe, and should reach all corners of the country. This is because an informed citizen is better equipped to protect themselves and to assist government efforts to curb the epidemic.
Even though these services are already within the mandate of government to provide with or without the corona epidemic, our clarion call on government is premised in the belief that there are better alternatives to combat the spread of the Coronavirus than the house demolitions being prescribed under Section 8 (1) (l) from SI77 of 2020.
Francis Mukora is a certified public policy analyst, journalist, human rights campaigner and social justice activist. He currently works as the Research and Advocacy Coordinator for Community Alliance for Human Settlements in Zimbabwe (CAHSZ) an organisation that advocates for safe and secure access to land, housing and socio-economic rights for internally displaced communities around Zimbabweans.
7 Apr 2020
It’s been nine days since the President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa announced a 21-day lockdown in a bid to limit the spread of Coronavirus in the country. Citizens took heed of the measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, albeit lack of a clear implementation strategy or consultation.
It is argued that interventions such as the national lockdown, observing social distancing, closure of public places and ban of public gathering among other measures are contributing to a greater extent to the low numbers of people that have tested positive in Zimbabwe. However, other sections of the community highlight that the low rate of people tested has a huge gearing on the knowledge of our infection rate. By end of day 8 (Monday 6 April 2020) 371 tests had been conducted, 361 people tested negative, ten tested positive and one death has been recorded. Provincially, there was one confirmed case in Matabeleland North, four in Mashonaland East and five in Harare.
NANGO also appreciates the role of civil society, government and the private sector of ensuring that there is wide information dissemination so that people’s awareness about coronavirus, its prevention, symptoms, treatment, testing and where to report suspected cases is raised. NANGO members are playing a key role during this period through mobilising resources such as sanitary pads for young girls during this time of immobility and early closure of shops, offering legal services in a bid to promote access to justice during the lockdown, offering psycho-social support to victims of gender based violence and domestic violence. Humanitarian organisations have continued with their efforts of ending hunger through facilitating food distribution in communities, observing the COVID-19 distribution protocols so that they don’t end up being vehicles of COVID-19 jeopardising the communities and their own lives.
It is encouraging to note that citizens have understood the need to adhere to ways of curbing the spread of coronavirus, cooperation from citizens is evident. However, some of the measures’ pragmatism is constrained by the need to fulfil human needs and wants which enable a modest life such as rural and urban dwellers having to queue for basic goods such as water at communal borehole pumps and taps and shops to buy essential food items. Other concerns being raised, by citizens have to do with right to privacy as police interrogate commuters publicly about where they are going and for those going to access critical medication which needs confidentiality are then highly compromised. The plea of informal traders, on how the lockdown has substantially eroded their source of income which traditionally is based on a hand to mouth model.
It is worrisome that some of our members have received complains of human rights violations perpetuated by some police officers. We noted that police officials have been moving in large numbers without wearing personal protective equipment. This basically means that the police officers are prone to contracting coronavirus just as much as they may spread it. Grouping people together, like what was witnessed in Bulawayo at the city’s Central Police Station during detention of more than 50 people for close to three hours also goes against measures of curbing the spread of coronavirus.
NANGO implores citizens to continue practicing social distancing, avoiding gatherings and practicing good hygiene in view of preventing spreading or contracting COVID-19. NGOs are urged to find ways of offering services and goods that are crucial for improved health service provision, access to water and access to correct information regarding the prevention, symptoms, treatment, testing and where to report suspected cases. We urge the government to restrain police officers, instruct them to desist from excessive use of force and perpetuating human rights violations. The lockdown affects Zimbabweans differently and it is very important for the police to understand that how they treat citizens could have daunting effects in an already frustrating economic, social and political environment.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care should ensure that frontline health care workers are provided with effective personal protective equipment, sanitisers and soap. Health care workers should be compensated accordingly for the efforts that they have put in to keep the spread of Coronavirus under control while also making sure that their families are safe. The ministry should also ensure that families of the affected and infected receive counselling in order to cope with the effects of COVID-19 on mental health. In the long term, working conditions of health workers should be improved in order for the sector to effectively and timely respond to unforeseen disasters and emergencies.
NANGO is the officially recognised coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. It is a non-party political, non-profit making and non-denominational official coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is mandated by its membership to coordinate the activities of NGOs, represent the NGO sector and strengthen the voice of NGOs in Zimbabwe.
For further engagement during this period please don’t hesitate to get in touch with NANGO Executive Director Leonard Mandishara on +263774078026, NANGO Board Chairperson Ronika Mumbire on +263712724911 or NANGO Board Secretary Dr Joachem Hatizivi Nyamande on +263784530915
