Zimbabwe Security Sector Embraces Inclusion: ZICC and ZOU Partner for National Sign Language Training
In a landmark commitment to enhancing public trust and ensuring access to justice for all citizens, the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC) and the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate Sign Language training across the nation’s security sector this Monday 8 December 2025.
The strategic partnership, formalised at the Cresta Lodge Hotel in Harare, aims to equip security personnel with the practical communication skills necessary to bridge the gap with the deaf community and fulfill the constitutional mandate of inclusive public service.
ZICC Chairperson, Honourable Justice W. N. Chinamora (Rtd) delivers his remarks
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the ZICC Chairperson, Honourable Justice W. N. Chinamora (Rtd.), underscored the practical significance of the agreement.
“This MoU is a practical investment in our nation’s stability and integrity,” said Justice Chinamora. “Our mandate at ZICC is clear: to promote professionalism, accountability, and respect for human dignity within security services. A ‘public’ service that a segment of the public cannot communicate with is a contradiction. True public trust is earned through consistent, meaningful engagement“.
The move is anchored in Section 6 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which formally recognizes Sign Language as one of the country’s 16 official languages, thereby mandating the state to ensure effective communication in all spheres of life, including security and justice.
Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Tavonga Njaya addresses delegates during the ZICC- ZOU MoU signing ceremony
Addressing the gathering on behalf of Professor P.H. Gundani, the Vice Chancellor of ZOU, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Tavonga Njaya framed the partnership under the theme, “Forging a Shared Future: Advancing National Security and Social Inclusion Through Strategic Partnership“.
“Security services must be accessible to all citizens, regardless of disability,” Professor Njaya stated. “Through this partnership, we are laying the groundwork for an inclusive security environment in which every Zimbabwean can engage with public institutions confidently and without communication barriers”. He confirmed ZOU’s role in developing a custom “Sign Language for Security Services” curriculum, committing to empower officers across all provinces.
Executive Secretary of ZICC, Ms. Netsai C. Chivake, highlighted the immediate impact. “Today, we launch a deliberate step towards a more inclusive, responsive, and trustworthy security sector,” she remarked. “For members of the Deaf community, reporting a crime or seeking emergency help should not be fraught with communication barriers. This initiative sends an unequivocal message: every citizen deserves to be seen, heard, and understood”.
Commissioner Dr. A. Mataruse delivered a presentation titled “Why Sign Language Training is Essential for the Security Sector?”, outlining the broader developmental context.
Dr. Mataruse emphasized that the initiative directly aligns with national goals and international frameworks:
- Agenda 2063 (Aspiration 3): Good Governance & Human Rights, ensuring that direct communication upholds the right to justice.
- UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities, by promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in public institutions.
He noted that the training will be implemented in phases, beginning with Foundation and Advocacy, followed by a Pilot and Capacity Building phase to train ZICC liaison officers and select front-line security personnel.
The consensus from the event reaffirmed a shared vision: a security sector where every Zimbabwean, Deaf or hearing, has equal access to protection, justice, and service, embodying the national mantra of “Leaving No One and No Place Behind in Justice and Security”. Witnessing the event were senior government security officials, ZICC Officials and ZOU Officials.
ZOU-ZICC MoU Signing Gallery
