On this World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, the United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) proudly honours Zimbabwe's rich and diverse cultural heritage. Our nation's strength lies in its variety of traditions, languages and histories, which, when embraced, form a powerful foundation for unity, peace and progress.
Cultural diversity is not just a hallmark of our identity but a critical driver of innovation, creativity and sustainable development. It is through understanding and appreciating each other's unique cultural backgrounds that we can foster genuine dialogue and cooperation, essential for building a resilient and cohesive society. By promoting mutual respect and intercultural dialogue, we can bridge gaps, address social inequalities and work collectively towards a more inclusive and prosperous Zimbabwe.
In the 1980s, Gukurahundi claimed thousands of lives in Matabeleland and the Midlands provinces. Families were displaced and so many women and children were left widowed and orphaned. Former President Mugabe said it was a moment of madness in our history. UZA recognises the importance of acknowledging this tragic past to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. We are committed to promoting a culture of unity, truth and reconciliation by promoting open dialogue, supporting restorative justice initiatives and ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard and respected. Our allegiance extends to integrating these cultural elements into modern development strategies, ensuring that progress and development respect and reflect our diverse cultural landscape.
We recognise that every Zimbabwean, irrespective of their cultural background, plays a crucial role in the nation's development. By creating platforms for intercultural dialogue, we aim to nurture understanding and cooperation among different communities. This approach ensures that development efforts are representative and beneficial for all cultural groups, ultimately strengthening our nation. We believe that united, we will build a Zimbabwe that honours its past, celebrates its present and aspires for a harmonious and prosperous future.
On this World Day for Cultural Diversity, let us embrace culture as a cornerstone for dialogue and development. Join us as we celebrate our shared heritage and collective strength, working together to ensure that every citizen can have a good life.
