Source: Etiquette key to restoring respect in society: PG – herald
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ETIQUETTE remains essential for building trust, fostering positive relationships and creating a more harmonious empathetic society, Prosecutor-General Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo has said.
Speaking at the launch of a book titled: “Poised, Polished, Powerful: The Etiquette Advantage,” written by etiquette coach Molly Chuma, Justice Matanda-Moyo said the growing influence of social media and digital communication was eroding essential social values.
She said the restoration of respect, kindness and integrity in society was a pathway to etiquette — a critical foundation for building strong relationships, professional credibility and national cohesion.
The book on etiquette, she said, came at a critical time when society needed renewed emphasis on respectful engagement and responsible conduct.
“Due to the high level usage of social media our morals have been highly eroded. People are becoming rude, unkind and impatient, and our youths spend more time browsing on their phones than interacting with others,” she said.
The Prosecutor-General said etiquette should not be viewed as a rigid set of social rules, but rather as a way of promoting dignity, integrity and consideration for others.
“True etiquette is about making others feel valued. It is an invisible quality anchored in integrity, discretion and character,” she said.
Justice Matanda-Moyo described the book as a practical guide that empowers individuals with skills needed to navigate both professional and social environments.
She said the publication highlights the importance of qualities such as poise, polish and inner strength in leadership and personal development.
“In my line of work, poise is non-negotiable. Whether presenting a complex case or leading a team through a crisis, one must exhibit composed readiness,” she said.
Justice Matanda-Moyo said polish goes beyond outward appearance and instead reflects knowledge, competence and refinement.
“You can only be confident if you possess the knowledge to back it up. Knowledge brings about a certain degree of style and grace,” she said.
Justice Matanda-Moyo said the book provides practical tools that can help individuals manage social situations effectively, including how to introduce themselves confidently, listen actively and demonstrate appreciation.
She said restoring respect and kindness in everyday interactions would contribute to stronger relationships and improved social harmony.
Justice Matanda-Moyo said the lasting impact of human interactions is better captured by renowned poet Maya Angelou, who said: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
She commended Ms Chuma for producing a publication that fills an important gap in etiquette education.
The Prosecutor-General expressed confidence that the book would contribute to rebuilding values of respect, professionalism and courtesy in society.
The post Etiquette key to restoring respect in society: PG appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.