Event Summary
On 10 January 2026, Acting Chief Silas Chikwanda, currently serving in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Harare, addressed the residents of Ward 14 in Masvingo North, Masvingo Rural District, regarding new clearance protocols for community activities. He emphasised that all planned activities within the area must receive approval from the respective village heads or the Councilor. Mobilisers are now required to submit written requests detailing the name of their organization, the number of participants, the topic or activity intended, and the names of facilitators involved.
While this initiative aims to regulate community activities, it raises concerns about the shrinking civic space. By imposing these clearance requirements, traditional leaders gain significant oversight over civil society organizations and community-based organisations (CBOs), potentially stifling grassroots engagement and limiting the ability of these groups to operate freely. The mandated registration and reporting process may create barriers for organizations, fostering an environment where activities are scrutinised and potentially censored, ultimately undermining the democratic principles of participation and open dialogue within the community.