Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – President Mnangagwa has called upon Zimbabweans to take charge of their destiny, emphasizing the importance of leveraging indigenous resources, skills, and talents for self-empowerment.
He underscored that while foreign involvement is welcome, it should only play a supportive role in aiding locals’ endeavours. He said this while speaking at 8th edition of the National Thanksgiving and Dedication Service which was convened by Zimbabwe Indigenous Interdenominational Council of Churches (ZIIC) at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo on Sunday.
The annual service, held since 2017, not only showcased the cooperative relationship between the church and Government but also serves as a platform to pray and thank God for 2024 which is coming to a close and ask for blessings of the New Year. This years’ service which was held under the theme “Our Nation, Our Opportunity” attracted worshippers from across the SADC region.
“Indeed, the land, Zimbabwe which the Lord has given us, is an exceedingly good land. We are thankful to the Almighty Lord. “Further, development initiative’s and programmes, for the upliftment and prosperity of our people, have become the solid foundation upon which we are building our country brick by brick and stone upon stone.
“Us people of Zimbabwe are our own liberators and using our indigenous resources, skills and talents. Others are welcome to assist us,” he said.
President Mnangagwa highlighted that the successes achieved under the Second Republic are a testament to God’s continued presence in Zimbabweadding that the nation is being renewed each day as it progresses toward realizing Vision 2030.
‘Looking back at the successes we have scored under the Second Republic; we are seeing the goodness of the Lord in our land in the country. We are not in despair and the Almighty God has never abandoned us. Our nation is being renewed day-by-day towards Vision 2030,” said President Mnangagwa.
He emphasized that communities are being transformed to become more empowered and prosperous, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to leaving no one and no place behind. He also took the opportunity to commend the significant contributions of churches across all denominations to nation-building.
“I particularly recognise the leadership of our Churches, in their various offices, for being Godly spiritual shepherds over the people of our country. “The Lord says in Jeremiah Chapter 3 verse 15, ‘I will give you shepherd according to my heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding”, he said.
“Thank you all for remaining true to the offices you hold within the Churches in the country. Your individual and collective whole hearted service is appreciated by my Government. More so that you have preached the uncorrupted Word of God, which remains the beacon of hope, source of wisdom and guidance for the people of our nation,” he said.
President Mnangagwa commended the congregants for spreading the gospel and fostering spiritual growth among people from diverse backgrounds, noting their role in inspiring individuals to live by God’s teachings of love, unity, compassion and service.”
“This Thanksgiving Service is, therefore, also a tribute to profound impact and unity of purpose which has been demonstrated in our communities by the Church as a whole,” he said.
Looking ahead, President Mnangagwa expressed confidence in the nation’s future, drawing strength from the grace of the Almighty God, which empowered the people to liberate themselves from colonial bondage and reclaim the land stolen from their forefathers by white settlers.
“Today, we stand proud and tall as a truly free and independent people, enjoying freedom of worship and advancing Godly values as well as people centred national development agenda.
“In the year ahead, unflinching focus on national Vision, goals and aspirations, coupled with hard honest work, production and productivity, should see us live up to the instruction given in Genesis Chapter 1 verse 28.
“It is our responsibility and duty to be fruitful and to subdue the earth. We remain anchored on our national philosophy, Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, ilizwe lakhiwa, libusiwe, likhu-le-kelwe, ngabanikazi balo,” said President Mnangagwa.
In the agriculture sector, the President emphasized that the government is actively addressing the challenges posed by climate change, highlighting various initiatives, including the construction of dams and drilling of boreholes as measures to mitigate its impact.
“We raise up our arms in thanksgiving for the rapid modernisation and expansions of our infrastructure as well as increasing inflows of economic investments and diaspora remittances, which are having transformational impact on economic growth,” he noted.
He highlighted significant advancements across diverse sectors, including mining, manufacturing, tourism, information and communication technology (ICT), education and various social services demonstrating broad and impactful progress.
“Zimbabwe is rising as a force of indigenous heritage-based development. We pay tribute to the revolutionary values, ideals and national pride bequeathed to us by forebears. The future of Zimbabwe is growing brighter and brighter,” he said.
In the quest for Vision 2030, President Mnangagwa urged the nation to embody true patriotism and cultivate a genuine love for their country. He encouraged the youth to reject attempts by detractors to instil negativity or disdain towards their motherland.
“Never be blind to the vast potential of our land. Open your eyes and hearts to truly love and be committed to the land of your birth. You, the youths, are the future of this great nation. “Meanwhile, we thank Jehovah God that our SADC region is united in purpose, to bring peace, development and prosperity to all our people,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President was accompanied by his deputy Vice President Kembo Mohadi, ZANU (PF) national chairoerson, Oppah Muchiguri, government ministers and other officials.
New Ziana
