Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
Victoria Falls Reporter
NORDIC countries have endorsed Zimbabwe’s candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term.
The endorsement came during the 22nd Africa–Nordic Foreign Ministers’ meeting held in Victoria Falls yesterday, a development that reflects growing international confidence in Zimbabwe’s diplomatic re-engagement drive.
It follows the recent official launch of Zimbabwe’s UNSC bid by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, at the UN Headquarters in New York on behalf of President Mnangagwa.
Anchored on strengthening multilateralism as the primary tool for conflict resolution, Zimbabwe has pledged to promote global peace and security through peaceful dispute settlement, regional cooperation and greater inclusion of women and youth in peace processes.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Mr Espen Barth Eide described Zimbabwe as a “very strong candidate,” saying the Nordics are ready to back Africa’s choice.
“I think Zimbabwe will be a very strong candidate. We are always eager to see what the African countries propose, and we will take the lead of the African community. We will be very supportive, as we have been before,” he said.
Mr Eide further linked Zimbabwe’s candidacy to the wider push for reforming the UN Security Council to include permanent African representation.
The Nordic support adds to Zimbabwe’s earlier unanimous endorsements from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African union (AU), firmly positioning it as Africa’s consensus candidate.
Speaking at the meeting, Prof Murwira reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to peace and inclusivity on the global stage.
“Guided by the commitment to peace, Zimbabwe has presented its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027–2028, determined to share its experiences and make its contribution in promoting a safe and secure world,” he said.
“We trust that our candidature merits the invaluable support of all Nordic countries at the election to be held in June 2026.”
Prof Murwira reiterated Zimbabwe’s foreign policy stance of being “a friend to all and an enemy to none,” adding that a UNSC seat would enable Zimbabwe to build on its long-standing contributions to regional and global peace initiatives.
“With a seat on the Security Council, Zimbabwe will draw on its many years of constructive involvement in regional and international peace and security initiatives to positively contribute to shaping the UN’s action on contemporary peace and security challenges,” he said.
The decisive election will be held in June 2026, and with Nordic backing, Zimbabwe’s campaign now enters the global stage with renewed momentum. Zimbabwe requires a majority vote in the General Assembly.
