“Consider debt cancellation to alleviate the economic burden”: Christian Leaders in Zimbabwe

The Christian leaders from reflected on the state of peace in the Southern African nation, saying that despite the country's good security, the people of God are still experiencing injustices and inequalities.

They noted that while Zimbabwe is not embroiled in outright violence or war, the situation of the country can be characterized as “negative peace”, a concept they said highlights the “absence of direct violence but presence of underlying structural injustices and inequalities.”

The Church leaders said Zimbabwe is grappling with economic hardships, political polarity, and social injustices.

They specifically pointed out social ills like drug and substance abuse, gross domestic violence, and armed robberies that they described as “a worrisome phenomenon” that impacts the well-being of the people, particularly vulnerable groups like women, youths, and persons with disabilities.

The members of ZHOCD called upon all political leaders in Zimbabwe to prioritize peace, justice, and the human rights of Zimbabweans, especially the vulnerable.

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“Let us work together to promote dialogue and understanding, address root causes of conflict, and protect human dignity and rights,” they said in the message on the International Peace Day, which was realized under the theme ‘Act Now for a Peaceful World.’

The Christian leaders in Zimbabwe referred to the words of Mahatma Gandhi on poverty, and wanted structural issues addressed to restore positive peace “marked by justice, equity, and human dignity for all Zimbabweans.”

“Let us work together to build a more peaceful, just, and stable society in Zimbabwe and contribute to global peace efforts,” they said.

Sabrine Amboka is a Kenyan journalist with a passion for Catholic church communication. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from St. Paul's University in Kenya.