Chronicle Editor
Welcome to the Live Blog of the Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference!
We are delighted to welcome you to our live blog coverage of the Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference, taking place at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. This significant event brings together party members, leaders, and supporters from across the nation to discuss and shape the future of Zimbabwe.
What to Expect
We will provide real-time updates, insightful commentary, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content throughout the conference. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Live Updates: Stay informed with minute-by-minute coverage of speeches, discussions, and key announcements.
Expert Analysis: Gain deeper insights from political analysts and commentators on the implications of the conference proceedings.
Interactive Features: Participate in live polls, and Q&A sessions, and share your thoughts in the comments section.
Exclusive Interviews: Hear directly from key figures and delegates about their perspectives and expectations.
Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference Opening and Theme
The Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference, held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo, is a pivotal event in Zimbabwe’s political calendar. This conference, themed “Industrialise and Modernise Towards the Attainment of Vision 2030,” brings party members, leaders, and stakeholders together to discuss and strategize on the nation’s future.
The conference will officially open today with President Emmerson Mnangagwa leading the proceedings. This year’s theme underscores the Government’s commitment to economic development, modernisation, and achieving the long-term goals outlined in Vision 2030. The focus is on industrial growth, infrastructure modernisation, and leveraging innovation and technology to accelerate national progress.
Thereafter, a Conference Gala will be held on Saturday from 7PM at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre Showgrounds.
Live Reporting
A summary of the key points from the closing remarks at the Zanu PF 21st National People’s Conference:
Unity and Loyalty: President Mnangagwa emphasized the need for all party members to remain united, disciplined, and loyal to Zanu PF’s values. He reminded delegates of the importance of aligning with the party’s ideological foundations and warned against division, corruption, and tribalism.
Vision 2030 Commitment: Delegates were urged to support the national goal of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. Mnangagwa called for efforts to drive industrialization and modernize the economy as outlined in the conference theme, “Industrialise and Modernise Towards Vision 2030.”
Grassroots Engagement: The President encouraged delegates to return to their communities and actively engage in grassroots mobilization to ensure that resolutions and projects directly benefit local populations. This effort includes a focus on social and economic development initiatives that address the needs of every village and district.
Rejection of Counterproductive Behaviors: He underscored the party’s intolerance toward behaviors such as favoritism, regionalism, and self-serving practices, urging all cadres to prioritize the collective mission of Zanu PF.
Acknowledgement of Youth and Veterans: The contributions of young people and veterans were highlighted, recognizing them as the pillars supporting the party’s long-standing mission and its continuity.
These remarks concluded with a declaration of Zanu PF’s commitment to overcoming national challenges, including sanctions, and achieving prosperity for Zimbabwe.
2.43PM
President Mnangagwa concludes his speech by declaring the 21st Zanu PF Annual People’s Conference officially closed.
President Mnangagwa said party cadres should adhere to the party constitution. Zanu PF is a party of rules and a party of order.
His Excellency says that the country is marching towards Vision 2030. He says under the ZANU PF Government, the rise of Zimbabwe is unstoppable.
He warns party Cadres who are engaging in acts bordering on criminality. President Mnangagwa speaks against favouritism, tribalism and corruption.
He says Zanu PF is a party of the people, “Go back to the provinces and tell the people that Zanu PF is alive and unified.”
2.03PM
The President says all cadres are challenged to be disciplined and follow the rules. They have to follow the party constitution, by following the correct line.
“Straying from the correct line can be fatal. “ZANU PF is a party of rules and a party of order.”
His Excellency says the grassroots should receive the outcomes of this conference and transfer them to local communities. He reiterates his call of “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” and says that this will take the country forward.
He says Zanu PF is the party of liberation and party of the future, a colossal party. President Mnangagwa says the resolutions passed should improve people’s lives. The President says the country should go forward with its industrialisation drive.
President Mnangagwa has thanked the party for holding a successful conference. He says the summary of discussions are indeed our political proclamations and call to action which must be timely implemented.
President Mnangagwa says the party is coming out of the conference more united.
President Mnangagwa is now on the podium to deliver his closing remarks. This will mark the end of the 21st Zanu PF Annual People’s Conference
1.55PM
Online writer
BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe — In a significant address during the Zanu PF Annual People’s Conference, Secretary for Legal Affairs Cde Patrick Chinamasa underscored his commitment to constitutional integrity while discussing the proposal to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term from 2028 to 2030.
Cde Chinamasa revealed that in his consultations with the President, he has consistently asserted his stance as a constitutionalist. He emphasised his involvement in the drafting of Zimbabwe’s current constitution, which explicitly limits presidential terms to 2028. “I cannot be seen going against a constitution I had a hand in drafting,” he said, highlighting the importance of adhering to legal frameworks and democratic principles.
1:34PM
Online Writer
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe — The Zanu-PF Annual People’s Conference has entered an open session, where Secretary for Legal Affairs Cde Patrick Chinamasa is presenting key resolutions agreed upon by all provinces and thematic committees.
Notably, the resolutions include a proposal to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term of office as party First Secretary and President from 2028 to 2030.
“We have achieved a lot under the leadership of President Mnangagwa hence we understand the motivation of this conference to have him lead beyond 2028,” said Cde Chinamasa
1.26PM
Some of the resolutions include improving health care services, building more schools, improving the distribution of agricultural inputs, value addition and engagement of the British government to fulfil its promise of providing funds to compensate white former farmers.
1.13PM
The Conference is now in an open session. Zanu PF Secretary for Legal Affairs Cde Patrick Chinamasa is reading out the conference resolutions.
12:53PM
ZANU PF’s Annual People’s Conference delves into national Issues
The ZANU PF National Annual People’s Conference is currently in its committee stage, where delegates are meticulously examining a wide range of critical issues.
These matters include the party’s internal affairs, the nation’s economic and social landscape.
Key topics on the agenda include:
• Party Affairs: Delegates are assessing the party’s current state, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for future growth.
• Economic Development: Discussions are focused on the state of the national economy, provincial economies, and strategies to boost economic growth and development.
• Social Issues: Topics such as women’s empowerment, youth affairs, drug abuse prevention, and environmental conservation are being deliberated upon.
• Veteran Affairs: The well-being of war veterans, ex-political prisoners, detainees, and restrictees is also under deliberation
• Cultural Heritage: The preservation and promotion of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage, including religion, tradition, and tourism are also on the agenda.
Following these in-depth deliberations, the ZANU PF Secretary for Legal Affairs will present a comprehensive report outlining the resolutions adopted by the conference. These resolutions will shape the party’s and Government’s programmes and strategies.
11.15AM
The Presidium is now at the Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference venue which marks the start of the business of the day.
The conference business resumes as a closed-door session.
11.00AM
Online writer
BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived at Hall 5 to tour stands exhibiting at the 21st Annual People’s Conference.
This year’s conference, which focuses on national development and community engagement, features a wide range of displays highlighting innovations, local businesses, and Government initiatives.
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10.17AM
President Mnangagwa is now in Hall 5 to tour stands that are exhibiting on the sidelines of the 21st Annual People’s conference
The tree planting programme ends and the President is now at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre touring exhibition stands.
Online writer
Famona, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe — President Emmerson Mnangagwa delivered a powerful message today, stating that “trees are life” and highlighting their vital role in contributing to the air we breathe.
His remarks came during a tree planting ceremony aimed at raising awareness about deforestation and its impact on the environment.
10.05AM
President starts addressing saying the trees are life and the trees contribute to the air we breathe.
The First Lady also encourages the planting of trees saying its worrying that we are recording deforestation.
She says tree planting will extend to the forest where massive deforestation has occurred.
9.55AM
Online Writer
FAMONA, Bulawayo zimbabwe — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially planted an umphaca tree today, naming it “Muvengo” as part of the ongoing national tree planting initiative aimed at combating deforestation and promoting environmental sustainability.
9.45AM
President Mnangagwa is accompanied by the first lady Dr Mnangagwa who initiated the tree planting program as the patron of the Secretary for Environment and Tourism
9.30AM
A total of 24 trees will be planted.
The programme is running on the sidelines of the 21st ZANU PF National People’s Conference being held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
The tree planting programme has been organised by the ZANU PF Department of Environment and Tourism.
Before the closing remarks, President Mnangagwa is in Famona suburb where he is set to lead party leadership in a tree planting programme before unveiling a plaque that has been constructed in his honour.
9.15AM
Good morning! Welcome to Day 2 of the Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference in Bulawayo.
President Mnangagwa, who is also the First Secretary of the ruling Party is expected to deliver his closing remarks at the conference.
Saturday October 26, 2024 [9.00AM]
00:07
President Mnangagwa applauds Zimbabweans’ resilience and unity in the face of illegal sanctions
Prosper Ndlovu, [email protected]
ZIMBABWE will continue to shame its detractors through the successful implementation of robust and people-centred development programmes and projects as the Zanu-PF-led Government accelerates economic transformation in line with Vision 2030 targets, President Mnangagwa said yesterday.
While prophets of doom are dreaming of a divided and crumbling Zanu-PF, he charged the revolutionary party cadres to remain vigilant, guard against infiltration, and uphold unity to safeguard the gains of the liberation struggle.
00:04
Vice-Presidents hail Second Republic’s development efforts
Nqobile Tshili, [email protected]
VICE-President Constantino Chiwenga has restated Zanu-PF’s unwavering commitment to the nation’s industrialisation and modernisation agenda.
Addressing the 21st Zanu-PF National People’s Conference in Bulawayo yesterday, VP Chiwenga, who is also the party’s Second Secretary, emphasised the urgent need to honour the trust and confidence reposed in Zanu-PF by the people of Zimbabwe.
The ongoing conference has attracted over 4 000 delegates, with the ruling party placing a premium on economic development throughout the event. The conference is themed “Industrialise and Modernise towards the Attainment of Vision 2030” in line with President Mnangagwa’s objective to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
VP Chiwenga reiterated that Zanu-PF acknowledges the mandate bestowed upon the party by the electorate.
“As the ruling party, we value and never take for granted the trust that the people of Zimbabwe bestow on us through their vote. On this call, the supremacy of the party over Government should continue to enhance the implementation of past conference resolutions, and this should be taken seriously. The electorate has confidence in our capacity to deliver to their expectations,”said VP Chiwenga.
00:02
Zanu-PF receives unwavering solidarity
Kuda Bwititi in Bulawayo
ORGANISATIONS from various sectors rallied behind Zanu-PF at its National Annual People’s Conference in Bulawayo yesterday, reaffirming their unwavering support for the revolutionary party.
In its solidarity message, the Communist Party of China (CPC) commended Zanu-PF for championing development that has uplifted the masses.
“In the 44 years since Zimbabwe gained its independence, Zanu-PF has led the Zimbabwean people to steadfastly safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests, and to stand up against foreign interference and illegal sanctions.
“The CPC applauds Zanu-PF for actively exploring a development path suited to Zimbabwe’s national conditions and making big strides in building and developing the nation.”
The CPC said it cherishes its long-standing rapport with Zanu-PF and is committed to further strengthening the already flourishing friendship.
This summary provides an overview of the key points and commitments made by various leaders at the conference, focused on national growth, resilience, and policy alignment with Zanu PF’s vision.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa
– Vowed to “shame our detractors” by implementing impactful development projects despite sanctions.
– Emphasized the goal of achieving an upper-middle-income status by 2030 through initiatives in mining, agriculture, tourism, and water infrastructure.
– Promised completion of the Lake Gwayi-Tshangani project for Bulawayo’s water security and reaffirmed support for farmers with input distribution.
– Called for Zanu PF structures to leverage technology and grassroots engagement to build support.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga
– Advocated for unity and industrial growth to build an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
– Congratulated President Mnangagwa on SADC leadership and urged policy resolutions for economic transformation and food security.
– Encouraged the development of homegrown solutions, supporting Zimbabwe’s autonomy in achieving national objectives.
Vice President Kembo Mohadi
– Praised President Mnangagwa’s leadership for fostering unity and peace, aligning with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.
– Stressed the importance of government adherence to Zanu PF policies, with the party as the guiding force.
– Recognized achievements and challenges, reinforcing the need for alignment between party resolutions and government actions.
National Chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri
– Delivered an inspiring welcome, reinforcing the conference theme on industrialization and modern economic transformation.
– Expressed confidence in President Mnangagwa’s leadership to achieve a prosperous Zimbabwe by 2030, rallying delegates around party goals.
Secretary General Dr. Obert Mpofu
– Emphasized party unity, conducting a roll call to affirm each province’s support for President Mnangagwa’s leadership.
– Outlined conference regulations and the agenda to address central committee reports and policy resolutions.
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Judith Ncube
– Highlighted Bulawayo’s pressing water challenges and the need for the Gwayi-Shangani Dam completion.
– Commended Government measures like borehole drilling and aquifer projects to address water issues, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for regional development.
The Zanu-PF delegates have gone for lunch and then they will enter a closed session.
2:45PM
We will shame our detractors’ – President Mnangagwa
Prosper Ndlovu, News Editor
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa on Friday vowed that Zimbabwe under the Zanu PF tutelage was determined to shame the country’s detractors through implementation of projects and programmes that transform people’s lives despite external hurdles such as sanctions.
He told thousands of party supporters and distinguished guests attending the 21st Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference in Bulawayo that the Second Republic under his administration is forging ahead with is comprehensive development agenda towards realising an upper middle income status by 2030.
Going forward, and being conscious of the mandate bestowed on it by voters, he challenged party structures to demonstrate determination to make a difference on people’s lives including harnessing technology and innovation to lure more suppoters.
“We will shame our detractors”, said President Mnangagwa who went on to highlight key development projects in mining, farming, tourism, as well as the construction of dams while pledging that the Lake Gwayi-Tshagani project would be completed soon to deliver a lasting solution to Bulawayo water challenges.
1:55PM
He ends his speech.
He concludes by encouraging delegates to debate honestly and raise issues that affect people and proffer ideas that resolve challenges and lay a future with positive hope for the masses. Says Zanu PF as ruling party will push the industrialisation agenda and modernisation of the country.
1:49PM
President Mnangagwa notes the strides made by Zimbabwe under the second republic in enhancing regional and international relations and commends the SADC bloc for its solidarity with Zimbabwe in denouncing sanctions imposed on the country by Western powers.
He stresses peace and harmony in the country and commends chiefs in Matabeleland provinces for their efforts in trying to resolve the Gukurahundi issues, which is critical in promoting national reconciliation and harmony.
1:47PM
Says the manufacturing sector policy reforms are impacting positively through reduced cost of doing business, Government private sector collaboration and technology development. Says Zanu-PF government is determined to continue supporting industry revival and through developing a vibrant skilled human capital base.
1:46PM
He notes the strides in the mining sector, the leading exporter in the country as well as milestones in manufacturing and tourism, which is defying the odds to increase arrivals.
1:45PM
On dam building he says his administration will shame detractors by completing the Gwayi-Tshangani Dam project and other projects to resolve Bulawayo water crisis for good.
Turns to land issues and makes reference to the recent policy position aimed at ensuring security of tenure. He challenges farmers to prepare thoroughly for the imminent planting season with Government distributing inputs to all farmers. He condemns corruption in this exercise.
1:43PM
As the current leadership he says they are aware they will one day leave the party and must leave it intact. He emphasises the party is too big to accommodate everybody but no one can make it fit in his or her pocket.
Reiterating that no one is above the party, President Mnangagwa calls for higher levels of discipline and loyalty, calls members to deal honestly and diligently. Says no one will be allowed to derail the Zanu PF people’s centred orientation.
1:40PM
Zanu PF First Secretary and President Cde Mnangagwa has condemned the manipulation of party structures to favour certain individuals.
President Mnangagwa says the restructuring of the party from cell level is critical in galvanizing mass support and ensuring victory in all elections while strengthening internal party positions.
“We condemn the manipulation of party structures to favour certain individuals. This must stop forthwith,” says President Mnangagwa.
He urges party cadres to remain vigilant and guard against infiltration by the enemy and reiterates the importance of the work of the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology in decolonising the mind and inculcating nationalist values.
1:34PM
“Step by step, brick by brick and stone upon stone Zimbabwe is on a path to achieve its transformative goals despite sanctions.”
He emphasises the need to uphold values of peace, unity, integrity, and honesty, reiterating that Zanu PF is a party that is driven by results and implementing programmes that address challenges facing the country.
“Together in unity, the party is focused on transforming people’s livelihoods guided by Vision 2030.”
Says Zanu PF as the revolutionary party is determined to continue defending the gains of the liberation struggle, says the party and the people of Zimbabwe are one.
President Mnangagwa leads the gathering in observing a moment of silence in honour of departed party cadres since the last conference.
1:31PM
President Mnangagwa says the massive turnout is commendable and demonstrates Zanu PF is a mass party that continues to grow from strength to strength.
Says the annual peoples conference is a critical gathering of the party and congratulates the organisers and Bulawayo as the host province for the warm welcome. “Siyabonga Bulawayo omuhle,” he says.
He observes protocol and acknowledges the massive presence of party delegates, affiliates, diomatic corps among other distinguished guests present.
President Mnangagwa takes to the podium, chants the party slogans amid thunderous cheers from the bumper crowd.
1:20PM
Song and dance usher President Mnangagwa who is the First Secretary of the ruling party Zanu-PF as be is about to give his remarks at the 21st National People’s Conference at the Zimbabwe International Conference Centre.
1:15PM
“He stands against the neo colonialism agenda which also comes through illegal sanctions. Let’s work together to develop our country. I invite the President to address the gathering.”
“Our President has promoted home grown solutions through Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo He has been a selfless and gallant son of Zanu-PF. He made a bold decision to join the liberation struggle and continues to work towards the development of the country.”
“As we plan for NDS2 we need to come up with programmes and policies that uplift communities ensuring that no one and no place is left behind.
His visionary leadership the quality of life of Zimbabweans is being improved.”
“As we draw closer to the end of National Development Strategy 1 we need to come up with resolutions that will address the challenges that we experienced in the policy implementation.”
“The electorate trusts the ruling party to uplift lives. Food security measures should be enhanced, industry should respond to the people.
A country should drive a knowledge driven economy. We gather here to take stock of the resolutions of the 20th National People’s Conference held in Midlands last year.”
“We should use the conference to come up with resolutions that spur industrialisation for modernisation. We value the trust the people of Zimbabwe have bestowed on us. The supremacy of the party should be seen in the implementation of Government programmes. He congratulates Zimbabweans for being peaceful during the conference.”
The conference there resonates well with the vision of the President of transforming the country into an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
He has also been appointed a chairman for SADC and we congratulate him for successfully hosting the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit.
The conference is coming just a few months after the President celebrated 82nd birthday. May God continue to give you a long life.
Vice President and Second Secretary of Zanu-PF, General (retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga is now addressing the gathering
1:01PM
12:55PM
The party chairperson says the conference them resonates well with the party and country vision of driving the nation towards an upper-middle income economy by 2030.
She says all delegates had a safe journey and enjoyed a good night sleep upon their arrival to the City of Kings and Queens.
Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri says she is highly honoured to welcome the presidium and the delegates to the conference
The crowd roars into cheers upon the mention and introduction of the First Secretary, President Mnangagwa as the chairperson of the Sadc region by Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri
National chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri has now taken to the podium.
12:50PM
He conducts a roll call where each province is called to the podium to announce its presence.
Cde Mpofu calls national chair Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri to take over
Cde Mpofu announces the party presidium in line with the party’s dictates.
President and First Secretary President Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President and Second Secretary Dr Chiwenga, Vice President and Second Secretary Cde Kembo Mohadi, National Chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, and Secretary to the Presidium Cde Obert Mpofu.
The slogan that President will be still leading the party until 2030, dominates the songs being sang by party’s provinces.
12:36PM
Zanu-PF Secretary General Dr Obert Mpofu takes to the podium.
He recognises the Presidium and their families among other protocols. He outlines how regulations that allows the party to conduct the conference.
Cde Mpofu has declared the 21st National People’s Conference duly convened.
Main purpose of this conference is receive and consider the report of Central Committee and resolutions of the Central Committee.
Cde Mpofu announces the party presidium in line with the party’s dictates.
President and First Secretary President Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President and Second Secretary Dr Chiwenga, Vice President and Second Secretary Cde Kembo Mohadi, nationa chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, and Secretary to the Presidium Cde Obert Mpofu.
He conducts a roll call where each province is called to the podium to announce its presense.
12:30PM
Political Commissar Cde Munyaradzi Machacha, who is the director of ceremonies, invites the Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube to the podium to give her welcome remarks
Minister Ncube informs the conference that Bulawayo is excited with the planned construction of a state of art hotel that will also have a 5 000 seater conference centre
Minister Ncube has finished her address
12:23PM
Zanu-PF Bulawayo chairman Cde Jabulani Sibanda takes to the podium to welcome party delegates.
Among the delegates are representatives of revolutionary parties from the region.
12:15PM
President Mnangagwa is now at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre for the official opening of the 21st Zanu PF Annual People’s Conference.
The conference started at the party headquarters in Harare on Tuesday with a Politburo meeting and a Central Committee meeting on Wednesday.
Over 4000 delegates from the country’s 10 provinces are attending the conference.
The annual indaba will end tomorrow.
Differences between the Zanu PF Annual People’s Conference and the Zanu PF Congress.
Online Writer
A Cursory look at social media and other platforms shows that some people misunderstand the distinction between the Zanu PF National People’s Conference with the party Congress.
The Zanu PF National People’s Conference is different from the congress.
The conference is held every year, whilst the congress takes place every five years.
Zanu-PF director of information Cde Farai Marapira having a lighter moment with the late former president Robert Mugabe’s son, Robert Jnr (in red cap)
12:10pm
Diaspora Zanu-PF district are part of the 4 000 delegates attending the party’s 21st annual People’s Conference at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre’s Hall Four.
Speaking through their representative Ms Catherine Kayila, the diasporans have reiterated calls for the unconditional removal of the illegal sanctions.
“Sanctions are hurting all Zimbabweans, locally and outside the country and today being a designated SADC anti sanctions day, we reiterate that they must be removed without any conditions attached,” said Ms Kayila.
The diaspora district is made up of members from China, Botswana, Namibia, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, Canada, United States of America and Zambia.
12:06PM
Delegates have taken their seats at the official opening of the 21st ZANU pf national people’s conference
12:02PM
The party also minimised the number of delegates to ensure robust engagements are conducted.
Zanu-PF has said economic issues are expected to dominate the conference deliberations.
Bulawayo last hosted the conference more than a decade ago.
The mood is already electric with a sea of people wearing the traditional Zanu-PF colours eager to participate in the policy formulating conference.
ITS all systems go at the Zanu-PF 21st National People’s Conference in Bulawayo with delegates assuming their seats.
Friday October 25, 2024 [12:00PM]
Online Reporter