6 ZLHR Annual Report 2014 Irene Petras — Executive Director, ZLHR legal aid and assistance, as well as constitutional rights education to communities at no cost. Our mobile legal clinics have attracted Zimbabweans from diverse social, economic and political backgrounds, whilst also allowing lawyers to obtain first-hand evidence for important public interest and strategic litigation that we hope will improve lives and society in the longer term. Through an increased focus on research and publications, ZLHR generated information that was well received by stakeholders – whether the simplified and translated fact sheets on the Constitution, the highly popular Legal Monitor, or specialised publications that sought to contribute to policy, institutional and legislative reform, as well as constitutional compliance. The organisation continued to play its pivotal role within civil society, representing the sector in efforts to monitor the Constitution, interacting on their behalf with government on its treaty obligations, and offering a range of capacitybuilding and technical services to a range of civic groups around the country. Within the SADC region, the expertise of ZLHR was recognised when it was granted the key responsibility of coordinating the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network– a collective of human rights organisations working on diverse human rights and rule of law issues throughout the region. We relish learning from, and interacting with, our colleagues in the region, continentally and at the global level. We take this opportunity to thank all stakeholders who were willing to engage with us: from local communities, civil society, different government ministries and departments, national constitutional commissions, and Parliament. With the strength and diversity of our partnerships, our work is made simpler and more enjoyable. Of course, none of our interventions would be possible without the support of our cooperating partners and the financing they continue to provide. Whilst ZLHR commenced the implementation of its sustainability plan some time ago, our operations could not have the reach and impact which they do, if it were not for the trust, confidence, respectful partnership and investment that they have made, and continue to make. Despite the ever-present challenges around us, ZLHR will continue to work towards fostering a culture of human rights, constitutionalism and rule of law in Zimbabwe, and the broader region. We look forward to your continued support as we strive to make this happen. ____________________ ____________________ Beatrice Mtetwa Irene Petras Chairperson Executive Director