Parliament Teams Up with Jesuit-Led Silveira House to Elevate Debate
In a landmark move aimed at sharpening lawmakers’ contributions to national development, the Parliament of Zimbabwe has entered into a strategic partnership with the renowned Jesuit institution, Silveira House (SH).
The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is set to breathe fresh life into Zimbabwe’s legislative processes by deepening MPs’ understanding of socio-economic issues and enhancing community engagement, particularly with marginalised groups.
Silveira House, established in 1964 by the legendary Roman Catholic priest Father John Dove and named after the 16th-century Jesuit missionary Father Gonçalo da Silveira, has long been a cornerstone of civic education, skills training, and grassroots empowerment in Zimbabwe.
Its faith-based, non-partisan approach has made it a respected force for social transformation in both pre- and post-independence eras.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Silveira House board representative Father George Bwanali said the partnership symbolised a critical step forward in fostering participatory governance.
“Silveira House has, for over six decades, stood at the intersection of faith, justice, and social transformation,” he said.
“This partnership with the Parliament of Zimbabwe is a natural and necessary evolution of our mission. Governance is not the responsibility of government alone—it must be enriched by the voices of civil society, communities, and the church.”
Bwanali emphasised the importance of rebuilding public trust in democratic institutions, describing it as “essential for peace, development, and national cohesion.”
“As we sign this MoU, let it be a pledge to pursue the common good; and a covenant to work hand in hand for the betterment of every Zimbabwean, especially the most vulnerable,” he added.
According to NewZimbabwe, the alliance aims to refine MPs’ capacity to interpret and interrogate legislation through training and civic education, ultimately leading to more robust, inclusive debates in Parliament.
The initiative also seeks to bridge the gap between lawmakers and the electorate, ensuring legislative decisions are grounded in the lived experiences of everyday citizens.
