John Sentamu starts Restore-Zim campaign 4 Peace, Prosperity and Rule of Law -- COUNT ME IN

Thu, 03/07/2008 - 15:01 — Jocelyn Chappell

I am heartened by Archbishop of York Dr. John Sentamu's call for specific help to Restore Zimbabwe today, as 'progress' seemed to be very slow on Zimbabwe at the African Union Summit this week.

I note that the John Sentamu, speaking at the start of the campaign, sets end point goals to include 'peace, prosperity and the rule of law.' 'Prosperity' is important. I wonder how much easier it would have been for those arguing for change at the Africa Union this week if the West had made further and timely progress towards its previously agreed Millenium Development Goals.

Dr. John Sentamu speaks.

"I am inviting people to work with me for the restoration of Zimbabwe in order that peace, prosperity and the rule of law are restored to that once great and prosperous land of hope for Africa which has become a waste land of oppression, poverty and disease.

Restoration will require prayer, money and support. I am asking people to commit to offering what they can in any and all of these categories.

People from Britain have a proud record of making a difference in the lives of people around the world. Whether it be the anti-apartheid movement, the ending of Ian Smith's UDI, the Jubilee Debt Campaign or countless other campaigns, British men and women have shown how their compassion and outrage over injustice can be channelled positively into bringing about new life and new hope.

This is an opportunity for civil society to engage - not by proxy through Government - but as ordinary British citizens joining their voices together with those from African to form a chorus calling for restoration in Zimbabwe and an end to the brutalisation of its people.

This is not a party political venture. It is not pro-MDC or anti-Zanu PF. Rather it is for the people of Zimbabwe, black and white, being helped by those here in Britain, white and black. We need to remember there is only one race – the human race – and in joining together to restore Zimbabwe, we ease the sufferings of our brothers and sisters."