Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka Zimpapers Politics Hub
AS Zimbabwe prepares to commemorate the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Day on 25 October, the occasion presents a vital opportunity for the nation to set aside political differences and unite in calling for the unconditional lifting of sanctions that have affected the country for over two decades.
This collective action — amplified by Zimbabweans both at home and across the diaspora — is essential to address the tangible economic hardship and stunted national growth caused by these measures. Irrespective of political affiliation, religious belief, or social standing, the consensus must be clear: enough is enough.
While citizens have the constitutional and democratic right to support a political party of their choice, the call for the unconditional removal of economic sanctions — imposed primarily by the United States and its allies — requires placing national interest above party loyalties, ambitions, and egos.
Zimbabwe will be joined by the wider SADC region, which in 2019 designated 25 October as a day to protest against the imposition of these measures by the US and its Western allies, including Britain and the European Union.
The country has reportedly lost billions of US dollars in potential revenue and missed opportunities due to these unilateral sanctions.
The imposition of sanctions under the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA) of 2001 followed the fast-track land reform programme initiated in 2000. This programme sought to redress a historical imbalance in land ownership, where a small minority of white commercial farmers held approximately 75 percent of the land, while the majority black population was confined to communal areas.
Today, the effects of these sanctions are far-reaching, particularly in restricting Zimbabwe’s access to lines of credit.
Regional and continental support for Anti-Sanctions Day underscores the significance of this moment: a call for all Zimbabweans to express their stance on an issue that deeply affects their quality of life.
Collective action from all progressive stakeholders is essential, demanding that energy be channelled into a unified and unequivocal call for the removal of sanctions.
It is imperative that politicians work together with a shared vision, recognising that the challenges facing the nation are far greater than individual political egos.
It would be unwise for any political party to undermine this opportunity by refusing to join the widespread call for unconditional removal.
Moving beyond party politics is necessary to foster a spirit of unity — one people with shared aspirations — beginning the long journey of national reconstruction.
The nation cannot afford to be held hostage by political actors who prioritise personal ambition over the welfare of the country.
The goal is unity. There should be no minority, no majority — only one people working together for the common good.
Sanctions remain a painful thorn in Zimbabwe’s side, crippling the economy and affecting every citizen, regardless of the term “targeted” often used to describe them.
Their removal is essential for the successful implementation of Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
Rising against sanctions must therefore be a shared responsibility, as their impact cuts across all sectors.
The future of Zimbabwe lies in integration and collective effort — replacing cycles of political ambition and division with unity, love, and peace.
This is no longer merely a political or economic crisis; it is a crisis of the soul. Sanctions are fundamentally detrimental to Zimbabwe’s development and the well-being of its people.
The nation must be allowed to compete fairly in the global arena, free from the burden of imposed restrictions.
Every Zimbabwean — in business, education, healthcare, or the arts — must recognise that the success of Vision 2030 is intrinsically linked to the lifting of these debilitating sanctions.
Amplifying the call for their removal means engaging in public dialogue, raising awareness on social media, and participating in peaceful advocacy both locally and internationally.
By uniting, Zimbabweans can send a powerful message to the global community: that these sanctions are unjust, counterproductive, and obstruct the people’s right to economic self-determination.
Despite the challenges, Zimbabwe has recorded notable successes. However, with the full removal of sanctions, the country would undoubtedly reach even greater heights and realise the prosperity envisioned by the Second Republic.
Indeed, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, the nation is in capable hands. Only those “blind in mind” would fail to acknowledge the significant progress being made under the stewardship of a pragmatic and visionary leader who is actively driving Zimbabwe’s recovery.
This call to unity transcends partisan divides, emphasising that the economic well-being of every Zimbabwean depends on the removal of these restrictive measures.
SADC Anti-Sanctions Day must be embraced as a moment of collective action, where national interests decisively outweigh political ambitions.
By rallying around this shared cause, Zimbabweans can deliver a clear and compelling message to the international community: that sanctions are unjust, harmful, and a barrier to the realisation of Vision 2030.
Ultimately, the fight against sanctions is about securing Zimbabwe’s future — replacing cycles of conflict with cycles of unity, love, and peace.
The progress already achieved, even under the weight of these restrictions, suggests that with their full removal, Zimbabwe is poised to reach unprecedented economic heights. Every citizen, regardless of background or political leaning, has a role to play in this advocacy — ensuring the country is given the opportunity to thrive on equal terms in the global village and attain the prosperity it rightfully deserves.
derick.khumalo