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 Leroy Dzenga

The ruling party ZANU PF yesterday demonstrated its institutional agility in reacting to changing circumstances when it held a blended session of its National Annual People’s Conference in Bindura, Mashonaland Central.

The main event, where a select number of delegates were invited to interface physically, was held at Bindura University of Science Education.

Unlike in the past, where a convoy of buses was a sure way of knowing that there is a national event being held, this time it could be mistaken for a private ceremony. Only a few vehicles belonging to a few delegates occupied the parking lots at the institution`s campus.

For the first time since the inception of ZANU PF conferences, securing parking close to the venue was easy.

This does not in any way communicate a low turnout, the 19th edition of the ZANU PF National Annual People’s Conference still had as many participants as the previous 18 instalments.

ZANU PF`s adoption of Information Communication Technology (ICTs) allowed it to give those who could not travel due to Covid-19 considerations, an opportunity to take part in an immersive process.

The Director of Ceremonies for the day, Deputy Political Commissar Omega Hungwe was ensuring that those who were not in Bindura could contribute to discussions and deliberations in real time.

Yesterday`s virtual session was not a fluke, but a hint on the direction that the revolutionary party is adopting.

In his keynote speech, President Mnangagwa confirmed that indeed the party is adopting digital solutions in its strategy. 

“The restructuring process incorporates the vast lessons of the past strategies and ICT driven solutions of today. The Party must be a safe home for all Zimbabweans. 

“Hence the incorporation and accommodation of more young people, as well as professionals across all sectors, along with Diaspora Structures, will now be an integral part of party mobilization going into the future,” said President Mnangagwa.

In the run up to the conference, ZANU PF director for administration, Major (Rtd) Dickson Dzora, assured his party that all was in order for the successful virtual hosting of the conference.

True to his words, proceedings were smooth, with no single report of glitches from all the provincial sites where provincial delegates were contributing from.

This marks a turnaround in the way that events are hosted. ZANU PF can even inspire some Government departments.

Gone are the days of burning fuel and tyres to convene meetings, the future of hybrid events is here.

The ruling party became one of the first institutions in Zimbabwe to bring together more than 20 000 people to participate virtually in the same process at the same time.

Digital dexterity is yet another milestone in the home of revolutions, changing to new and exciting times.