By Kudzai Makuku
The Zimbabwe Diaspora Community Network (ZDCN) has announced that 18 April will serve as a key consultation day in London, focused on diaspora engagement around ongoing constitutional developments. The event, which will be held in a hybrid format, will bring together Zimbabweans in the United Kingdom alongside a range of partner organisations to encourage broad and inclusive participation.
ZDCN confirmed that it is working collaboratively with various community groups and stakeholders to deliver a well-structured platform that enables meaningful dialogue and informed contributions from diaspora communities.
ZDCN spokesperson Mr Oliver Zambuko stated that the organisation remains firmly committed to strengthening diaspora participation in Zimbabwe’s national affairs. He emphasised that Zimbabweans living abroad have a critical role to play in rebuilding the country, noting that their experiences, expertise and perspectives are invaluable in shaping sustainable and progressive policies.
Mr Zambuko highlighted that the choice of 18 April is deeply symbolic, as it coincides with Zimbabwe’s Independence Day. He explained that hosting the consultation on this important national occasion provides an opportunity for diaspora communities to reflect, engage, and contribute constructively to conversations about the country’s future.
He urged Zimbabweans across the UK to attend and actively participate in what he described as a significant and informative consultation. Attendees will have the opportunity to better understand proposed constitutional amendments and contribute their views in a structured setting. Mr Zambuko added that all feedback gathered during the consultation will be compiled into a formal report to be submitted to Parliament in Zimbabwe, ensuring that diaspora voices are clearly represented.
Furthermore, Mr Zambuko revealed that ZDCN will be rolling out similar consultation events across the UK, with further details to be announced in due course. These nationwide engagements are intended to widen participation and ensure that diverse diaspora perspectives are captured.
He also announced that the organisation will soon be launching an online consultation campaign, designed to complement the in-person events. This digital initiative will ensure that Zimbabweans across the diaspora regardless of location are given a fair and accessible opportunity to share their views, helping to guarantee that as many voices as possible are heard and represented.
He reiterated that ZDCN continues to advocate for greater inclusion of the diaspora in national decision-making processes. This includes ongoing calls for stronger institutional frameworks that recognise the importance of Zimbabweans living abroad and create clearer pathways for their involvement.
As part of this broader vision, Mr Zambuko noted that the organisation is campaigning for the establishment of a dedicated diaspora ministry, which would see the appointment of a minister specifically tasked with representing diaspora interests. He stated that such a development would enhance coordination, unlock opportunities, and significantly improve representation.
In addition, he pointed to the need for innovative mechanisms that ensure diaspora participation is not only encouraged but structurally embedded. He referenced models such as existing parliamentary quota systems for women and youth, suggesting that similar approaches could help facilitate meaningful diaspora representation and signal a genuine commitment to inclusivity.
ZDCN continues to position itself at the forefront of efforts to amplify diaspora voices, promoting a governance approach that is inclusive, participatory, and reflective of all Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad.
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