Online Reporter
Gibson Nyikadzino
Zimpapers Politics Hub
ZIMBABWE has started deploying diplomatic officers to New York as the country prepares to serve its upcoming 2027-2028 tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council from January 1 next year.
The officers, who recently concluded an intensive capacity-building training programme on contemporary geopolitical dynamics, conflict resolution, and peacekeeping frameworks at the Zimbabwe Foreign Service Institute (ZFSI), are mandated with protecting Zimbabwe’s interests.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade spokesperson Mrs Philisiwe Chidawanyika confirmed the deployments, saying the first team had already left the country.
“The first team has already left the country for New York as part of the arranged deployments following their training at the ZFSI. As we speak, the deployment is underway. They are being deployed in batches,” Mrs Chidawanyika said.
During their tenure and mission, the diplomatic officers are also expected to reinforce Zimbabwe’s mission to the United Nations, ensuring the country plays an active, strategic role in shaping global policy directives.
Zimbabwe was elected to the UNSC after securing 182 votes out of 191. This marks the country’s third time serving on the council, with previous mandates being the 1983-1984 and 1990-1991 terms.
Analysts hailed Zimbabwe’s election to the UNSC as a significant diplomatic achievement and a sign of growing international support.
As Africa’s sole candidate, backed by the African Union, Zimbabwe successfully rallied support from member states across other regions.
Zimbabwe’s election into the UNSC marks the third time the country has served on the body since gaining independence in 1980.
President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe would use its membership of the UNSC to promote peace, multilateral cooperation, and Africa’s interests. He said the seat offers both Zimbabwe and Africa a stringer voice in debates on security, climate risks issues, peace-building and global governance reform.
