Innocent Mujeri
In recent years, Zimbabwe has faced various challenges that have often been magnified by both external observers and local voices. While criticism can sometimes be constructive, it is disheartening to observe a growing trend of thriving on negativity, even when there are opportunities to highlight progress and potential. This inclination to dwell on the negative has the unintended consequence of undermining our national pride and distorting our collective story. As Zimbabweans, it is high time we change our perspective, choose optimism, and work toward promoting a positive narrative that shines a light on our country's achievements and ambitions.
We live in a world where negativity can easily dominate headlines and social media discussions. From economic challenges to infrastructural concerns, it’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of despair. But we must ask ourselves: how does constant criticism help us move forward? Instead of focusing solely on what’s wrong, let us challenge ourselves to also highlight what’s right.
Our country, Zimbabwe, is endowed with natural beauty, resources, a rich history, and a resilient people. We have a story worth telling—a story of perseverance, progress, and hope. Yes, we have challenges, but those should not define us. The spirit of Zimbabweans has always been one of overcoming adversity. We are a people who rise up in times of difficulty and forge ahead. This is the Zimbabwean story that we should be telling.
Let’s shift our mindset and start focusing on the positives. This does not mean ignoring the issues we face, but rather approaching them with a constructive attitude. By celebrating our victories and acknowledging our setbacks with the intent to improve, we can build a more united and hopeful Zimbabwe.
Recently, Zimbabwean stadiums, including the National Sports Stadium, were banned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for failing to meet required standards. This development has drawn widespread criticism from many Zimbabweans, with some reacting as though this issue is unique to our country. However, we need to put things into perspective.
Zimbabwe is not the only country facing challenges regarding stadium infrastructure. Numerous other nations, including Malawi, Namibia, and Sierra Leone, have also had their stadiums banned by CAF due to similar issues. The list of countries with stadiums that fail to meet CAF standards is extensive, and it includes countries from across the African continent.
This is not a Zimbabwean problem alone; it is an African issue that stems from infrastructure challenges many countries face.
This context is important because some of us act as though it’s only our stadiums that have been flagged. The reality is that CAF's standards have become more stringent, and many countries are struggling to meet these requirements. The failure of our stadiums to meet these standards is a technical issue that requires attention, but it is not an indication that Zimbabwe is uniquely failing. Rather than demonizing our country or exaggerating the situation, we should focus on how we can collectively work to improve our stadiums and meet CAF’s criteria.
This is not to suggest that we ignore the need for renovations. We should absolutely advocate for the refurbishment and upgrading of our sports facilities. But let’s do it in a way that seeks solutions rather than exacerbating the problem with negativity. Zimbabwe, like many other nations, is working toward meeting international standards, and with a united effort, we will get there.
One of the most important lessons we can take from this situation is that we must be mindful of how we talk about our country. The words we use to describe Zimbabwe matter, not only within our borders but also to the international community. If we constantly project a narrative of failure and inadequacy, that is how the world will perceive us. On the other hand, if we promote a balanced view that acknowledges both our successes and our areas for improvement, we can change how Zimbabwe is seen on the global stage.
We must be the champions of our own story. It is not about pretending that problems don’t exist, but rather about ensuring that our challenges don’t overshadow our progress. When we focus exclusively on negativity, we give more power to the very issues we are trying to overcome. Conversely, when we highlight what is working and how we are addressing our challenges, we inspire others to see Zimbabwe as a nation on the rise.
Let’s take pride in the fact that Zimbabwe has made strides in many areas, including agriculture, education, and healthcare. Our country has the potential to be a leader in various sectors, but we need to believe in ourselves first. We should be the voices that speak proudly of our nation’s resilience, creativity, and determination.
As Zimbabweans, we have a duty to promote a narrative of growth and opportunity. Our nation will only thrive if we choose to thrive on positivity. We cannot afford to be the ones tearing down our country from within when there is so much to build up.
Instead of celebrating our shortcomings, let us celebrate our potential. We have a government that is making efforts to modernize infrastructure, and as citizens, we should hold our leaders accountable while also supporting initiatives that lead to national development. The banning of our stadiums is an opportunity for us to come together, demand better infrastructure, and work toward achieving it. But in doing so, let’s remember to present Zimbabwe in a way that highlights our determination to improve.
Our voices should be the ones that lift Zimbabwe up, not tear it down. The international community is watching, and how we talk about our country can influence how others perceive us. We have the power to shape that narrative, and we must use it wisely.
In conclusion, Zimbabweans, let’s commit to being preachers of progress. Let’s thrive on positivity and push forward a national story that showcases our resilience and hope. While we acknowledge the areas where we need to improve, let us also celebrate our achievements and promote a narrative that puts Zimbabwe in the good light it deserves. Our country’s future depends on the way we talk about it today. Let’s be the ones who speak life into Zimbabwe and guide it toward a brighter tomorrow.
