Zimbabwe assumed the Chairmanship of the Bureau of African Registrars General, with Registrar General Henry Machiri accepting the chairmanship on behalf of Zimbabwe recently.
“It is with profound honour, humility and a deep sense of responsibility that I accept the Chairmanship of the Bureau of African Registrars General.
“I am sincerely grateful for the confidence and trust that you have placed on Zimbabwe to lead this esteemed Bureau during the forthcoming term.
Zimbabwe remains committed to working closely with African member states and development partners to strengthen civil registration systems, which are critical for good governance, inclusive development and evidence-based policymaking,” he said.
He noted that universal and comprehensive civil registration systems are fundamental to protecting citizens’ rights and improving access to essential services across Africa.
“Civil registration is more than an administrative function. It is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of good governance, inclusive development and evidence-based policymaking.
Effective civil registration systems enable governments to strengthen national planning while supporting efforts to monitor progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and the aspirations of Agenda 2063,” he added.
Under Zimbabwe’s leadership, the Bureau will prioritise strengthening collaboration among African Registrars General.
“As we embark on this new chapter, Zimbabwe is committed to working closely with all Member States, the African Union Commission, UNECA, regional economic communities and our valued development partners to consolidate the gains we have achieved while addressing the challenges that remain,” he said.
Mr Machiri called on member states to continue working together in a spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility to accelerate progress towards universal and inclusive civil registration systems.
“The strength of this Bureau lies in our collective commitment and shared vision,” he said. “Together, let us strengthen Africa’s civil registration systems, uphold every individual’s right to legal identity and build a future where every life counts and every event is registered.”
Zimbabwe’s assumption of the chairmanship is expected to strengthen continental cooperation in modernising civil registration systems and expanding access to legal identity for millions of Africans.
