The programme, supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), seeks to strengthen constitutionalism, the rule of law, and reconciliation, while promoting the active participation of youth and women in governance.
The DP4P consortium includes prominent organisations such as the Zimbabwe Institute (ZI), the Centre for Applied Legal Research (CALR), 4-H Zimbabwe, Ukuthula Trust, and the Zimbabwe Christian Alliance, all of which will work closely with local communities and government entities to create sustainable pathways for reform.
Speaking at the launch event in Bulawayo, Swiss Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, Stéphane Rey, underscored the central role of dialogue in building a stable and prosperous society.
“Switzerland has long understood that peace is impossible without honest conversation, even when it is difficult,” said Ambassador Rey. “Our involvement in DP4P reflects Switzerland’s commitment to fostering platforms where all Zimbabweans – irrespective of political or social backgrounds – can engage meaningfully in shaping the nation’s future. Dialogue, reconciliation, and reform are essential to building a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous society.”
The DP4P initiative aligns with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 on poverty reduction and SDG 5 on gender equality, while complementing Zimbabwean government initiatives such as the Gukurahundi hearings. By focusing on national dialogue and creating inclusive platforms, the programme aims to contribute to a more just and equitable society.
Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, Norbert Mazunguye, hailed the DP4P programme as a vital contributor to the country’s Vision 2030 – a government blueprint for building a peaceful and inclusive society where human rights are respected, and citizens are empowered to shape their destiny.
“Achieving Vision 2030 requires collective efforts from all sectors,” Mazunguye stated. “The DP4P initiative is crucial in advancing peacebuilding, constitutionalism, and human rights. Its focus on gender equality (SDG 5) and reducing inequality (SDG 10) will play a pivotal role in our national development.”
ZI Executive Director, Isaac Maphosa, outlined the key goals of the programme, which include strengthening national dialogue, increasing policy engagement, enhancing cooperation among civil society groups, and promoting constitutionalism and the rule of law.
“The DP4P programme is designed to address the real needs of society,” Maphosa emphasised. “Our approach is demand-driven, and we are committed to working closely with government and community stakeholders to ensure that this programme has a lasting impact on participatory governance in Zimbabwe.”
Shari Eppel, Director of Ukuthula Trust, echoed the importance of open dialogue, even in the face of difficult conversations. “To achieve the goals of Vision 2030, Zimbabwe must embrace dialogue and collaboration,” Eppel noted. “Compromise is not a weakness but a strength. Only by working together, despite our differences, can we reach our full potential as a nation.”
Chief Siansali, representing the National Council of Chiefs, expressed the Council’s strong support for the DP4P programme, particularly for its potential to uplift rural communities in the Matabeleland region.
“As traditional leaders, we believe this initiative will play a crucial role in empowering our rural communities,” said Chief Siansali. “We encourage the consortium to ensure its programmes complement the efforts of chiefs in enhancing local development.”
The Diverse Pathways for Progress initiative marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s journey towards more inclusive governance, creating opportunities for citizens to actively shape their future through dialogue, collaboration, and reform. For more information on DP4P and its upcoming activities, stay connected with the Swiss Embassy’s updates.
