Zimpapers Logo

Peter Matika, [email protected] 

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has passionately urged media organisations and other advocacy groups to take a leading role in campaigning for the removal of the illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by Western powers, particularly the United States. 

These sanctions have gravely impacted the country’s economy and the welfare of Zimbabweans, warranting immediate and concerted action to raise awareness and drum up support for the anti-sanctions crusade. 

President Mnangagwa made these remarks at the SADC Anti-Sanctions Day event at the Large City Hall in Bulawayo yesterday morning. 

Addressing the gathering, President Mnangagwa underlined the critical role of the media in shaping public discourse and mobilising support against the sanctions, which have hindered the country’s economic development and well-being.

“The media, alongside anti-sanctions lobby groups, must unite in this mission to highlight the injustices of these illegal sanctions,” he said, emphasising that the media’s involvement is crucial in shaping public perception and influencing policy change.

“Today, we amplify our voice against the imposition of illegal sanctions by launching a digitally-enabled National Anti-Sanctions Petition Programme. The initiative enables citizens to digitally append their signatures on a petition to express their rejection of sanctions through online platforms.

“Media houses and practitioners, including other anti-sanctions lobby groups, are called upon to partner with this initiative. The fast-paced convergence of the broadcasting sector, including community radio stations and ICTs, should see an increase of access to anti-sanctions information across both rural and urban areas. It is the duty of all of us to raise awareness of the negative effects of illegal sanctions on our country and people,” said President Mnangagwa.

He said this year’s theme “Embracing Innovation Towards Vision 2030: A Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions” should push Zimbabweans to pursue new prospects for accelerated socio-economic growth. 

President Mnangagwa said heritage-based knowledge systems, climate-resilient agriculture, renewable energy, industrialisation, advanced healthcare, and research and development, are key to achieving Vision 2030.

“As such, collaboration and partnerships with progressive countries should be scaled up towards building a future driven by ingenuity, new technologies, science, and research. In doing so, it is critically important that we leverage our rich natural resources, skills base, and cultural heritage as we modernise and industrialise our motherland, Zimbabwe,” he said.

He said the youth are Zimbabwe’s source of hope and the leaders of tomorrow.

“They are the innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders of tomorrow. The Zanu-PF Government shall, therefore, continue to empower them with the requisite skills, resources, and tools to drive innovation and economic growth. In the same vein, the broadening of favourable measures and conditions that promote women’s empowerment for the realisation of sustainable economic development remains critically important,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said as a member of SADC, Zimbabwe is committed to working closely with its regional partners for the collective good and shared prosperity. He said despite the heinous and inhumane illegal sanctions, his Government will continue to pursue the policy of engagement and re-engagement.

“Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none. 

“As we join the region in commemorating this 5th SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, Zimbabwe strongly condemns the hegemonic tendencies and hypocrisy of those nations which continue to think that ‘might is right’ and brutally violate international law and the United Nations Charter without shame or remorse,” said President Mnangagwa.

He said as Zimbabwe continues to navigate its path towards recovery and progress, citizens must explore far-accelerated socio-economic growth.