Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka
Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE forthcoming 22nd Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference, set to be held from October 13 to 18 at Mutare Polytechnic in Manicaland Province, is not merely a ritualistic or any political gathering, it is a significant event on the party’s calendar, a moment for reflection, celebration and strategic planning.
This conference, expected to be attended by more than 4 000 delegates, is a critical exercise in democratic engagement, one that allows the party to reflect, rejuvenate and chart a path forward for the country.
Unlike many political parties in Zimbabwe and beyond, Zanu PF has maintained a consistent tradition of holding its national conference annually, ensuring that party members have an opportunity to come together, deliberate on critical national and party issues and strengthen internal unity.
Its unwavering commitment to holding this annual conference, as stipulated by its constitution, is a testament to the party’s adherence to democratic principles and constitutionalism.
In a political landscape where some opposition parties fail to convene such important gatherings, Zanu PF continues to show that it is not only a governing party, but a disciplined organisation that respects its founding principles.
This adherence to constitutional procedures is exemplary and demonstrates that the party remains committed to the rule of law and internal democracy.
The conference theme — “Attainment of Vision 2030 Through Economic Empowerment and Value Addition” — underscores the party’s unwavering commitment to achieving upper-middle-income status by 2030.
It provides a platform to brainstorm policies and initiatives that will spur economic growth, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
The conference will also be an opportunity to celebrate the tangible successes of President Mnangagwa’s Government, from ambitious infrastructure projects like road construction and dam building to the drive toward food security through initiatives like Pfumvudza/Intwasa.
In a strategic move to show its responsiveness to national issues, the conference agenda will also feature a prominent focus on drug and substance abuse.
Zanu PF National Chairperson, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, has stressed that all party wings must adopt zero-tolerance resolutions on the issue and advocate for a dedicated levy to combat it, modelled after the highly successful Aids levy.
“During these meetings, designated senior Politburo members and an officer from the Office of the President and Cabinet will present updates on the implementation of previous congress and conference resolutions.
“Additionally, experts from the Drug and Substance Abuse Inter-Ministerial Taskforce will deliver related presentations.
“Consequently, all party wings and the main body must unequivocally adopt a new conference resolution advocating for zero tolerance to drug and substance abuse and urging the Government to establish an Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse Levy, modelled after the Aids levy,” said Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri.
This action signifies that Zanu PF is prepared to back President Mnangagwa’s stance on drugs and substance abuse with a structured, party-driven mandate to protect the nation’s youth.
The decision to hold this year’s conference in Mutare is significant as it highlights the importance of Manicaland province as a major player in Zimbabwe’s tourism sector. Mutare, as the provincial capital, acts as a gateway to the Eastern Highlands, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes.
The recent success of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo in Mutare further underscores the area’s growing prominence, which has elevated the profile of Manicaland’s tourism offerings on a national and international scale.
Furthermore, Manicaland’s economy is not solely reliant on tourism; it’s also a hub for forestry and agriculture, making the province a key player in the nation’s economic landscape.
Zanu PF Secretary for Information and Publicity, Cde Christopher Mutsvangwa, confirmed that the party is well-prepared to host the event.
He said, “We just held our review conference in Manicaland a week or two ago. Some of the infrastructure is going to be inherited from Sanganani Travel Expo which was held in Mutare.”
He added that the party’s chairperson, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, is happy with the preparations.
Cde Mutsvangwa also noted that the conference would feature documentaries celebrating Manicaland’s role in the national liberation struggle.
“It must be done positionally. Telling the Zimbabwe story. There will be stories about the attack of the Grand Reef Airport in 1977-78,” he said.
It is important to note that the Zanu PF conference is not just a routine gathering; it is a critical exercise in democratic engagement, one that allows the party to reflect, rejuvenate, and chart a path forward for the country.
The unwavering commitment to holding this annual conference, as stipulated by its constitution, is a testament to the party’s adherence to democratic principles and constitutionalism.
In a political landscape where some opposition parties fail to convene such important gatherings, Zanu PF continues to show that it is not only a governing party, but a disciplined organisation that respects its founding principles.
This adherence to constitutional procedures is exemplary and demonstrates that the party remains committed to the rule of law and internal democracy.
The expected turnout of 4 000 delegates is evidence of the party’s sustained popularity and the success of its leadership under President Mnangagwa.
The conference serves as a vital platform for the ruling party to reflect on its commitment to upholding constitutional principles and advancing democratic governance in Zimbabwe.
