In a significant move to rally support against longstanding sanctions, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Chairperson, has officially signed an e-petition aimed at gathering one million signatures for the removal of what he describes as illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by Western nations. This initiative aligns with the SADC’s ongoing call to lift the embargo that has hindered the country’s economic progress for over two decades.
The year 2024 marks five years since the SADC region unified in demanding the lifting of these sanctions, a concerted effort that reflects the collective concern for Zimbabwe’s economic stability and development aspirations. President Mnangagwa, who also leads the ruling ZANU PF party, signed the petition during a gathering with party Politburo members, signaling a strong show of solidarity against the sanctions.
In his address to delegates, President Mnangagwa expressed gratitude to regional allies and friendly nations for their unwavering support during challenging times. He highlighted the sanctions’ detrimental effects, stating, “These unjust sanctions continue to have far-reaching consequences across the lives of our people. They are strangling our economy, undermining our right to self-determination, and compromising our development aspirations.”
President Mnangagwa articulated the harsh realities faced by ordinary citizens due to these sanctions, which have restricted Zimbabwe’s ability to engage in international trade, access financial resources, and invest adequately in social services. He noted that the sanctions disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, exacerbating social inequalities and hindering progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
President Mnangagwa praised the resilience of the Zimbabwean people, asserting that their unity and determination would ultimately prevail against the sanctions. “Our unity, resilience, resourcefulness, and fortitude will break the grip of these illegal measures. Together, we are emerging stronger and more innovative as we strive to build a robust economy and society,” he stated, emphasizing the need for collective action.
The launch of the National Anti-Sanctions Petition Programme, which allows citizens to sign the petition digitally, aims to amplify the call for the sanctions removal. Mnangagwa encouraged media outlets, community radio stations, and anti-sanctions groups to collaborate in raising awareness about the negative impacts of the sanctions across all sectors of society.
As part of a broader strategy for national recovery, President Mnangagwa underscored the importance of innovation, research, and development, particularly in climate-resilient agriculture and renewable energy. He asserted that these sectors are crucial for achieving the nation’s Vision 2030 goals. “Let us pursue new prospects for accelerated socio-economic growth guided by innovative practices and collaboration with progressive countries,” he urged.
The SADC region’s call for the removal of sanctions is echoed by international voices. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, expressed concern over the sanctions’ impact on Zimbabwe’s socio-economic recovery and called for constructive dialogue to address the issue.
As Zimbabwe embarks on this renewed campaign against sanctions, the collective resolve of its leaders, citizens, and regional allies is evident. The e-petition, coupled with advocacy efforts, represents a strategic move to draw attention to the hardships faced by Zimbabweans and to mobilize support for lifting the sanctions that have been deemed unjust.
With this initiative, Zimbabwe aims not only to highlight the challenges posed by the sanctions but also to foster a sense of unity and purpose among its citizens, galvanizing them towards a shared vision of economic recovery and sustainable development. The upcoming campaign serves as a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s ongoing struggle for self-determination and economic independence, inviting all stakeholders to join the fight for a brighter future.
In other news – Rapper Lil Durk arrested in Florida
In a shocking turn of events, Grammy Award-winning rapper Lil Durk has been arrested in Florida on federal charges related to an alleged plot to carry out a revenge killing. The charges stem from an incident in 2022 involving the attempted murder of rapper Quando Rondo, which resulted in the death of Rondo’s cousin, Saviay’a Robinson. Durk, whose real name is Durk Banks, is charged with conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, according to an FBI affidavit released on Friday.
The arrest took place on Thursday night as Durk was reportedly attempting to flee the country. The FBI indicated that Durk’s actions are connected to a broader investigation involving five other members of his Chicago-based rap collective, “Only the Family” (OTF), who have also been arrested about this case. Read More
