Gwanda (Ilanga-New Ziana) – Matabeland South Province is ready to join the nation and the Southern African Development Community at large this Friday in denouncing illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the Unites States and the European Union (EU).

The sanctions were slapped on the country two decades ago to pressure the government to relent on its land reforms which both the US and the EU vehemently opposed.

The reforms involved the take-over of excess farmland from white farmers to resettle landless peasants as a way of economically empowering them.

At its annual summit in August, SADC set aside October 25 as a day to collectively campaign as a bloc for the removal of the sanctions, which the government estimates had cost the country US$100 billion.

Government has since declared the day a public holiday to allow people to attend Sadc-initiated anti-sanctions activities countrywide, which will include matches.

In an interview, Matabeleland South Provincial Information officer, Austin Nyathi said the goal of the day was to press the US and the EU to remove the sanctions.

“All districts are prepared for the day, as a province we are ready to go for the march. Mobilisation is well done and the Ministry of Local Government will release the budget, estimated to be $100 000.
“It is just that we are having a major setback at the moment because of ICT material, as we do not have the banner carrying the relevant message for the day, T-shirts, Caps and a PA system to show that Zimbabwe is joining SADC countries in de-nnouncing the issue of sanctions. But by the (end of) day that will be rectified,” said Nyathi.

Nyathi said a march will start from Gwanda Town, proceeding to Phelandaba Stadium; the reason being that on the day in question it would be on a Friday whereby the targeted audience would be passing by the town through Rovos Rail Train which transports tourists, hence they will get to hear the message.

“On the day that would be when the national event of anti-sanction day will be taking place, thus, in Mat South, the march will start from town because that is where the tourists would be passing by to Phelandaba Stadium where residents are going to get to hear the speech to be read by the Minister of State for Matabeleland South, Cde Abednico Ncube,” said Nyathi.
Ilanga-New Ziana