Online Reporter
Gibson Nyikadzino
Zimpapers Politics Hub
Zimbabwe welcomes constructive partnerships that strengthen collaboration in ensuring that people enjoy fulfilling lives while upholding the principles enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Dr Frederick Shava has said.
He made the remarks on Monday while meeting the visiting African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) high‑level delegation, led by the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Sallah‑Njie, at Mgandane Dlodlo Building in Harare.
He said the delegation’s four‑day presence was not a procedural formality, but a testament to the shared commitment between Zimbabwe and the Commission to the principles of the African Charter.
“The journey towards the full realisation of human rights is a continuous one for all of us, and we welcome constructive partnerships like this one as they assist us in navigating that path.
“It is, therefore, our sincere hope that this mission will strengthen collaboration between the Government of Zimbabwe and the Commission, ensuring that our people enjoy happy, prosperous and fulfilling lives, while increasing the visibility of the African Charter within our national institutions,” Dr Shava said.
Zimbabwe has committed to ensuring that citizens enjoy their rights as envisaged in its Constitution, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and as part of efforts to attain upper middle‑income status by 2030.
Dr Shava said Zimbabwe holds the African Commission in high regard as the cornerstone of human rights protection on the continent, and expressed gratitude for the Commission’s adoption of Resolution 610 in 2024 on the impact of sanctions on the realisation of human rights.
Zimbabwe, he said, fully recognises its obligation to promote and protect the rights enshrined in Article 45(1) of the African Charter and Chapter Four of its Constitution.
“We recognise the vital mandate of the Commission in promoting and protecting human rights across our continent. We are grateful for the solidarity shown by the ACHPR in opposing these restrictive measures. This alignment supports our shared goal of ensuring that all Zimbabwean citizens enjoy their human rights free from external economic impediments.
“The severe impact of these measures is undeniable, as both direct and indirect sanctions have systematically impeded Zimbabwe’s socio‑economic development, weakened public institutions, and restricted access to essential services.”
Dr Shava added that the Commission’s visit demonstrates Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to the principles of the African Charter, and that the expected engagements will foster mutual understanding.
Zimbabwe has received positive reviews from progressive regional and international institutions regarding its commitment to upholding human rights.
