Harare,  (New Ziana) -Newly appointed Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe took the oath of office on Thursday with a pledge to work with all stakeholders in executing his new mandate.

In a brief speech to the media soon after his swearing in at State House, Sanyatwe said sports, arts and culture play a critical role of uniting the nation, youth empowerment and economic growth as well as promoting the national identity.

“Given that background, it is my submission that I should by all means take on board all stakeholders as I embark on my new journey to lead this formation. Basically, my mission therefore is to develop, to create as well as to promote all the aspects that go by our identity and where possible for it to be recognised locally and internationally,” he said.

He paid tribute to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for appointing him as Minister of Sports, Arts and culture, saying he was humbled by the confidence and trust that the head of State had given to him.

“It is indeed a great honour, a special recognition from His Excellency. In fact, I am also humbled with the confidence and trust that the President has accorded me to lead this special Ministry,” he said.

Sanyatwe said sports arts and culture are very strong tools for the country’s national unity, youth empowerment as well as economic growth. “It is with these that a nation is identified as it carries the county’s identity, history and its aspirations,” he stated.

New Ziana