NATAAZ, PF peace pact

By Ann Zulu

THE National Theatre Arts Association of Zambia (NATAAZ) has pledged to observe and safeguard peace in the country in the run up to next month’s general elections.

             NATAAZ during the Peace march on Saturday- Picture by Ann Zulu

NATAAZ made the pledge during a Peace Solidarity march in Lusaka on Saturday.

The event which consisted of artists from all over the country was graced by Patriotic Front (PF) Kabwata aspiring Member of Parliament Given Lubinda, as Guest of Honour who also joined the peace march from the Lusaka Post Office all the way to the Lusaka Play House.

Activities marking the event focused on the role of artists in peace building considering that they (artists) had capabilities to promote both peace and violence through their performances.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Lubinda called on all political players to observe peace and support the call for peaceful elections by different stakeholders ahead of the August 11.

He emphasised that despite having different cultural tribal, political, religious and racial backgrounds, Zambians were all one.

Mr. Lubinda, who is also Agriculture Minister, reiterated the need for Zambians to safeguard the peace that the country had enjoyed over the years, saying that the country’s peace was vital than anything else.

“We need to thank God for the peace that Zambia has continued to enjoy and it is important that we do not take this peace for granted. Political leaders must arrest violence and take the steps of Jesus Christ. He preached love, peace and forgiveness. Peace is very much important even as we go towards elections,” Mr. Lubinda said.

He also commended the NATAAZ for taking up the challenge to contribute to the peace of the country.

He observed that artists were a great treasure in promoting peace and that Government would support all efforts that contributed to peace in Zambia.

Speaking earlier, NATAAZ National Chairman Boyd Chibale observed that artists especially musicians had been used as agents of violence and that it was time to engage them as agents of peace by preaching a message of peace.

According to him, artists had a pivotal role to play in maintaining peace in Zambia.

He said the Peace Solidarity march marked a beginning of an intensive campaign against political violence before, during and after elections

“As NATAAZ, we want to indicate our commitment to peace and emphasis the need to be united amidst diverse affiliations,” Mr. Chibale said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Lubinda has been appointed as NATAAZ patron, following his remarkable contribution towards arts in Zambia when he served in the association.