The aims of this training were to create sustainable local security structures allowing traditional leaders to solve community conflicts; and to equip leaders with skills to manage and resolve conflict. In Zimbabwe, traditional leaders have been involved in solving conflicts for many decades. Their skills are generally passed from generation to generation, instead of through … Continued
In Zimbabwe, our partners Envision Zimbabwe Women’s Trust continued their work in 2020 in spite of the challenging environment for civil society organisations. Working with the police, they have been helping to reduce violence and increase awareness about COVID-19.
2020 was a year of unprecedented challenge and change. For Peace Direct and our partners, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to quickly adapt and respond to the changing environment. Like many organisations around the world, we have continued to deliver our work in new and innovative ways. As we move forwards in 2021 and beyond, we’ve been reflecting on our successes last year. Here, we are pleased to share some of our highlights:
Despite the impact COVID-19 poses to civil society and our collective ability to respond to conflict, we are resolute in continuing support for those communities around the world who are most affected. The continued support from People’s Postcode Lottery players gives us the strength and hope to continue our important mission towards peace. With players … Continued
We won’t forget 2020 in a hurry. The pandemic put an end to many things – but not the lifesaving work of peacebuilders, and all those working to make the world safer. Staying home and social distancing have strained family and community ties. Yet, we’ve remembered the importance of solidarity and kindness – and we’ve … Continued
This is Sabhuku’s story – he is a traditional leader in Zimbabwe who worked with our local partner, Envision Zimbabwe Women’s Trust, on a project supported by the players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.
At this time of world crisis, Peace Direct is working hard to make sure years of grassroots efforts to build peace doesn’t stop. We’re so grateful for your support of this work, which touches thousands of lives like those of Mai Mumiro and her daughter.
And now we need you more than ever.
Call for applicants: the Zimbabwe Peace Exchange aims to bring together a diverse group of civil society organisations from across Zimbabwe to share knowledge, experience and lessons, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The crises that are on the horizon for the Zimbabwean people seem much more urgent than any planned electoral process, and it is hard to see how the country can keep functioning until 2018 when the next election is scheduled. The death of Mugabe or a popular uprising seem more likely catalysts for a change in government – we can only hope that either of those pass with minimal violence and usher in a more democratic and responsible successor.
Tom Gillhespy, Head of International Programmes at Peace Direct, recently visited Zimbabwe and our partner working on the ground, Envision. He reflects on his trip, the increasing state of flux in the country, and why supporting local organisations working on the ground is ever more crucial.