Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe has called for the immediate lifting of all sanctions, noting that they are crippling the economy and violating citizens’ rights.
The country has also reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Speaking at an interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development in Geneva, Switzerland, Permanent Secretary for Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Mrs Vimbai Nyemba stated that unilateral coercive measures have severely undermined Zimbabwe’s social and economic progress.
“Far from the claim that sanctions are ring-fenced and targeted at a few individuals, the reality on the ground is that the tight grip of these unilateral coercive measures is being felt throughout the whole economy,” she said.
“It is ordinary people, particularly the vulnerable, who bear the brunt of these heinous and inhumane measures, which also stifle economic and social progress in Zimbabwe, the SADC region, and the African continent at large.”
Mrs Nyemba emphasised that sanctions have worsened external debt, blocked access to credit, and deterred tourists and investors, leaving the country vulnerable to deindustrialisation and high unemployment.
“The stigma from being sanctioned scares away potential investors. This has led to stagnation effects that undermine our people’s right to work and their social rights,” she said.
Turning to the theme of the dialogue, Mrs Nyemba welcomed the Special Rapporteur’s report on gender equality and development, asserting that women’s empowerment is central to national growth.
“We believe that gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but a necessity for national growth,” she said.
“In 2023, we integrated gender as a cross-cutting theme in our country’s development strategy, and we remain steadfast in empowering women and girls to fully participate in economic and social development.”
Mrs Nyemba cited Zimbabwe’s Constitution, which prohibits gender-based discrimination, and highlighted the adoption of the National Gender Policy alongside the ratification of regional and international treaties promoting women’s empowerment.
She urged the international community to act decisively on sanctions.
“We reiterate our call for the immediate removal of these sanctions, lest we remain at risk of being left behind,” Mrs Nyemba said.
“May this message reach the ears and rattle the conscience of those perpetuating these cruel sanctions.”behind,” Mrs Nyemba said.
