NEW: SADC will be developed by its people: President Mnangagwa

Blessings Chidakwa

President Mnangagwa has challenged SADC member states to work together in developing the regional bloc’s economies.

In his presentation at the 7th SADC Summit public lecture at the University of Zimbabwe in Harare today, President Mnangagwa urged SADC member states to take a leaf from Zimbabwe’s mantra “nyika inovakwa, igotongwa nekunamatirwa nevene vayo” (a country is developed, ruled and prayed for by its citizens).

“Gone are the days when we depended on people from elsewhere to develop our economies, provide services for our communities, and avail goods for our industries and commerce,” he said.

“The forebears and founding fathers of SADC fought for the political liberation, democracy, independence and freedom we are presently enjoying.

“This current generation of SADC citizens should take deliberate steps to exit perpetual dependency.”

President Mnangagwa said innovators should lead in import substitution.