Online Reporter
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke, Senior Zimpapers Writer
KENYA’S newly appointed Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mrs Getrude Nyausi Angote, yesterday pledged to strengthen diplomatic, economic and cultural ties between the two nations following the presentation of her credentials to President Mnangagwa at State House.
Ambassador Angote stated her mission would focus on enhancing co-operation across key sectors, building on the countries’ long-standing shared history and vision for African prosperity.
“Our priorities are in trade and investment, but more importantly, we intend to deepen our diplomatic relations in many ways,” she said.
Ambassador Angote also highlighted tourism and cultural exchange as areas with significant potential for growth.
She noted that Zimbabwe and Kenya both boast vibrant tourism sectors and are already co-operating in this area, with plans to scale up collaboration.
The ambassador further emphasised the importance of working together to address climate change, which continues to disproportionately affect the African continent.
“As you know, Africa is disproportionately affected by the effects of climate change. With the global climate agenda in mind, we are looking to strengthen our relationship with Zimbabwe, to build resilience and implement climate action to address droughts, floods, and other climate-related challenges,” she said.
Ambassador Angote also pointed to the strong relationship between President Mnangagwa and his Kenyan counterpart, President William Ruto, particularly through their roles in continental and regional bodies, as a solid foundation for future co-operation.
“We are looking at continuing those kinds of relations and deepening engagements,” she said.
She identified education and agriculture as critical areas for collaboration that could enhance food security and skills development in both countries.
“Education is a very critical area. Let’s have more exchanges in education and agriculture so that Africa can bolster food security, as two countries that are very close together,” said the ambassador.
Her accreditation marks the formal commencement of her diplomatic mission in Zimbabwe, with both nations expected to continue building on their long-standing historical and political ties.
Colletta Dube