Online Reporter
Africa Moyo-Deputy National Editor
ZIMBABWEANS commemorate the Sadc Anti-Sanctions Day tomorrow, with President Mnangagwa expected to lead the proceedings with an address highlighting Government’s people-centred policies and strides made in transforming the economy despite external pressures.
His message will be shared by Zimbabwean embassies abroad, which will engage host governments and international partners in solidarity efforts.
The Sadc Secretariat will also issue a regional statement in support of Zimbabwe, while the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services will host an Anti-Sanctions solidarity event and gala at the Heritage Village featuring top local artistes.
Further, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development is expected to release a documentary showcasing the achievements of Zimbabwe’s SMEs sector, a key pillar of inclusive economic growth.
The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, through the University of Zimbabwe, will also host a public lecture and student-led panel discussions to promote dialogue and awareness among youths.
A gathering has been planned for Rufaro Stadium where thousands of people are expected to converge to thunderously condemn the economic sanctions that have ruined the country for over two decades.
Economists say sanctions have cost Zimbabwe upwards of US$150 billion.
Read also: https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/president-headlines-anti-sanctions-commemorations/
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In 2021, United Nations Special Rapporteur on unilateral coercive measures, Professor Alena Douhan, visited Zimbabwe for two weeks to assess the impact of the embargo.
In her report, Prof Douhan called for the unconditional lifting of the unilateral sanctions against Zimbabwe and urged meaningful structured dialogue on political reform, human rights and the rule of law.
The independent expert said the unilateral sanctions and over-compliance with sanctions in their complexity had worsened pre-existing social and economic challenges with ruthless consequences for the people especially those with disabilities, women, children, elderly, and other vulnerable groups.
“Sanctions on Zimbabwe imposed by Britain and the United States must go. They are hurting human rights,” said Prof Douhan.
In a solidarity statement yesterday, the Southern Africa University Debate Championship (SAUDC) said it stands in firm with the people of Zimbabwe and “unequivocally condemns the continued imposition of illegal economic sanctions” on the country.
“These illegal economic sanctions have long impeded Zimbabwe’s socio-economic growth, restricted trade and investment, and undermined the dignity and well-being of its citizens,” said SAUDC Chairperson Mr Motsi Qoyi.
“It is important to remember that Zimbabwe is the first nation to face severe illegal economic sanctions following its liberation.
“Additionally, despite these unjust and oppressive sanctions, Zimbabwe has shown the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) what it means to build a nation under such challenging circumstances.”
Mr Qoyi said SAUDC supports Zimbabwe’s national slogan, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/ Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo”, which is being implemented across the country including by those in the Diaspora in various ways such as remittances.
“We recognise that these illegal economic sanctions not only hurt governments, but also devastate ordinary people, limiting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
“As a platform of intellectual and civic engagement, we vehemently reject all forms of economic oppression that hinder development and regional progress.
“We, therefore, demand the immediate and unconditional lifting of these illegal sanctions by the Western world. We further call upon all university students in the SADC region to unite their voices in denouncing these unjust measures, to advocate for regional solidarity, and to stand firm in defence of economic sovereignty, justice, and African self-determination,” said Mr Qoyi.
He urged all university debate unions in Sadc to host public speaking debates tomorrow and stand in solidarity with Zimbabweans.
“Let the youth of Southern Africa rise as one generation — a generation that chooses unity over division, prosperity over deprivation, and justice over inequality. Lift the sanctions now!” said Mr Qoyi.
