Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has paid tribute to fellow SADC member states for their unwavering solidarity with Zimbabwe in its campaign against illegal sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union, describing the regional support as a source of strength for the country.
Speaking at the SADC Cluster Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Transport, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Information and Meteorology, which ended in Bulawayo yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, said the spirit of unity and mutual support that characterises SADC should continue to guide member states whenever any country in the region faces external pressure.
“Allow me at this point to express our deep appreciation for the solidarity and support that the SADC community has extended to Zimbabwe in our fight against illegal sanctions,” he told delegates.
“Your unwavering stance has been a source of our strength. We equally hope that the region will stand united with any sister nation that may become threatened by global powers with sanctions. It’s this spirit of collective defence and mutual support that defines our community,” said Minister Soda.
He conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from President Mnangagwa, who presided over the burial of national hero Ambassador Victor Matemadanda, Zimbabwe’s former ambassador to Mozambique and the Kingdom of Eswatini who died last weekend.
Minister Soda said Amb Matemadanda’s distinguished diplomatic service symbolised the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation that continue to unite SADC member states.
Minister Soda said the meeting marks the culmination of deliberations that began with senior officials earlier in the week before ministers convened to consider recommendations aimed at accelerating regional integration.
He said the sectors represented at the cluster meeting remain mutually reinforcing pillars that underpin trade, investment, connectivity, resilience and sustainable development across Southern Africa.
“As we meet against a backdrop of rapid technological change, evolving economic realities and increasing climate-related challenges, there is a growing need for coordinated action and innovative solutions that respond to the aspirations of our people and strengthen the competitiveness of our region,” he said.
Minister Soda said transport is the cornerstone of SADC’s regional integration agenda, saying efficient, safe and climate-resilient transport systems are essential for facilitating trade, lowering the cost of doing business and improving the movement of people and goods across borders.
He highlighted Zimbabwe’s continued investment in strategic transport infrastructure, including the upgrading of the Beitbridge-Harare Road Corridor and the modernisation of the Beitbridge, Chirundu and Forbes border posts.
In the aviation sector, he said investments at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport have significantly enhanced capacity and strengthened regional connectivity.
Turning to ICT, Minister Soda said digital technologies have become a major driver of economic transformation and social inclusion.
“Zimbabwe continues to expand broadband infrastructure, digital connectivity and e-Government services while supporting the implementation of the SADC Digital Transformation Strategy and other regional initiatives designed to improve interoperability and harness opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” said Minister Soda.
On the information sector, he said there is increasing recognition among member states of the need for SADC to communicate with one unified voice amid the proliferation of misinformation and competing global narratives.
He said member states are exploring the establishment of regional broadcasting platforms, including a SADC television channel, a regional radio network and collaborative digital news services that would amplify the region’s collective voice and showcase its achievements.
Such platforms, said Minister Soda, would strengthen the sense of regional identity among citizens while enabling SADC to effectively project its positions on continental and global issues, including trade, investment and climate change.
He called for continued collaboration among public broadcasters through content sharing, policy harmonisation and capacity-building programmes to ensure that SADC’s voice resonates consistently across the region and internationally.
Minister Soda also underscored the critical role of meteorological services in protecting lives, livelihoods and economies as climate change continues to intensify.
He urged member states to use the meeting to agree on practical measures that will accelerate implementation of regional commitments and programmes, while remaining guided by the principles of solidarity, mutual benefit and shared prosperity.
While acknowledging the progress made by member states, Minister Soda said the region continues to face significant challenges, including ageing infrastructure, climate change, the digital divide, fragmented media landscapes and high logistics costs.
“The achievements we celebrate today are the result of collective effort. Every road we rehabilitated, every digital platform we established, every broadcast we coordinated and every weather system we improved contributes to the broader vision of a more integrated, connected and resilient Southern Africa,” he said.
