Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
EDUCATORS have called for the unconditional removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by Western countries ahead of the SADC Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Day commemorations scheduled for Sunday.
The commemorations will be held in Bindura, Mashonaland Central Province, under the theme, “Leveraging Regional Integration and Global Partnerships for Economic Transformation beyond Illegal Sanctions”.
The theme highlights the Government’s drive to expand trade, strengthen regional value chains and unlock new investment opportunities.
Hundreds of teachers affiliated with Zanu PF through Teachers4ED gathered at Baines Junior School on Saturday for a capacitation workshop, where participants called for the removal of sanctions, which they said were constraining economic growth and development.
The guest of honour was Chitepo School of Ideology acting principal Retired Colonel Earnest Dube, who was joined by Zanu PF Bulawayo provincial chairman Senator Jabulani Sibanda and other ruling party officials.
Mrs Roda Moyo, a primary school teacher in Bulawayo, said sanctions were affecting ordinary Zimbabweans and the country’s economy.
“Sanctions are hurting ordinary Zimbabweans and our economy and we are calling for their total removal. These sanctions have constrained the country’s access to international finance and investment so our economy cannot grow,” she said.
Another teacher, Ms Pretty Sibanda, said removing sanctions would help Government access external funding and lines of credit to finance infrastructure development.
“Zimbabwe has been suffering for too long as a result of sanctions and its time they are removed unconditionally. Government needs to access international lines of credit to finance road and infrastructure development but that cannot be done when we are under sanctions,” she said.
SADC Heads of State and Government designated October 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day at their 39th Summit in 2019, establishing an annual regional platform for member states to express solidarity with Zimbabwe and highlight what the country says are the economic effects of the restrictions.
Zimbabwe has since commemorated the day under themes reflecting its position on sanctions and calls for their removal.
This year’s theme places emphasis on regional cooperation and international partnerships as the country seeks to strengthen its productive capacity and expand access to external markets.
