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Rome, Italy – The Speaker of Parliament of Zimbabwe, Hon. Advocate J.F.N Mudenda, has arrived in Rome, Italy to participate in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Interfaith Dialogue from 19th to 21st June 2025. This marks the second iteration of the IPU Interfaith Dialogue, following the successful gathering in Marrakech, Morocco, in 2023. The Conference is being organized by the IPU and the Italian Parliament in cooperation with Religions for Peace under the theme “Strengthening trust and embracing hope for our common future”.
The first Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue held under the theme, “Working together for our common future,” concluded with the Marrakesh Communique in which Parliamentarians acknowledged that interfaith dialogue that is “grounded in support of fundamental rights and freedoms, is an essential tool for promoting inclusivity and peaceful coexistence, upholding the rule of law and encouraging collective efforts to achieve a better society”.
The Rome Conference is unique as it brings together Speakers of Parliaments, Members of Parliament as well as representatives of religions, beliefs, governments, relevant United Nations (UN) bodies, international organizations, faith-based and civil society organizations, and the academia. Through different thematic sessions, participants will build on key recommendations of the Marrakesh Communiqué and other IPU Declarations and policy priorities. In the spirit of the Jubilee Year, the Conference will identify forward-looking joint-action points to promote peace and inclusivity, the upholding of the rule of law and human rights for all, without distinction.
Accompanying Speaker Mudenda are Senator Chief Nechombo, Chairperson of the Thematic Committee on Culture and Heritage Hon Farai Jere, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sports, Recreation, Art and Culture, and Hon. Maureen Kademaunga, member of the IPU Forum for Young Parliamentarians. Upon arrival at the Rome International Airport, they were warmly received by the Zimbabwean Ambassador to Rome, Her Excellency Mrs Chauke along with officials from the Zimbabwean embassy.
Zimbabwe’s Constitution guarantees freedom of worship. In this context, Speaker Mudenda is poised to highlight significant milestones achieved in promoting religious diversity within the nation. These include the establishment of inclusive policies that encourage interfaith dialogue and community cooperation among various religious groups, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s commitment to religious pluralism and respect for diverse beliefs.
A key highlight of the event will occur on June 21, when delegates will have the unique opportunity to meet with the newly ordained leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo IV. This meeting underscores the IPU’s mission to bridge gaps between differing faiths and foster dialogue aimed at cementing religious diversity and tolerance.
Speaker Mudenda’s participation in this esteemed dialogue not only reflects the Parliament of Zimbabwe’s active engagement in international relations through the aegis of Parliamentary Diplomacy but also its commitment to contributing to global peace efforts through mutual understanding and respect among diverse faith communities.
