Harare, (New Ziana) — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to marshal the same unity, patriotism and determination that fuelled the liberation struggle into building a modern, industrialised economy, declaring that prosperity for all is becoming a reality.
Speaking at the National Heroes Acre during the 45th Heroes Day commemorations on Monday, he paid tribute to fallen and living heroes for their sacrifices, while emphasising the ongoing struggle for economic development as the nation works towards Vision 2030 and beyond.
“This day must rekindle the spirit of sacrifice for which the heroes and heroines we are honouring today played their part. The baton has been passed on to us,” he said, adding: “Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo — a nation is built, governed, and prayed for by its own people.”
President Mnangagwa highlighted significant national achievements under the Second Republic, including a GDP rise from US$16 billion in 2018 to US$45.7 billion in 2025, with projected economic growth of 6 percent next year.
He credited multi-pronged reforms for boosting agriculture, manufacturing, mining, infrastructure and social services despite challenges posed by illegal sanctions, volatile commodity prices and global trade shifts.
He lauded bumper harvests in maize, wheat and traditional grains, record tobacco production, and growth in the national herd and milk output, attributing these to the hard work and perseverance of the people.
The new land tenure system, he added, is set to revolutionise agriculture through increased investment, mechanisation and financing.
In manufacturing, localisation of value chains and beneficiation has seen the sector’s contribution to GDP rise to 15 percent, while mining now contributes over 13 percent and continues to expand under responsible and environmentally compliant practices.
Energy self-sufficiency is also being advanced through renewable projects by independent power producers.
Infrastructure modernisation remains a priority, with major progress on the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway, including the Trabablas Interchange, and ongoing works on the Mabvuku-Tafara Interchange, Christmas Pass by-pass and several strategic roads across the country.
President Mnangagwa also underscored Government’s commitment to devolution, healthcare upgrades, and education reforms, including a strengthened legislative framework and expanded skills training to empower youth and drive rural industrialisation.
On the international front, Zimbabwe is bidding for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (2027–2028) and has joined the International Organisation for Mediation, reinforcing its commitment to global peace and security.
He urged the public — particularly the youth and women — to take an active role in socio-economic development, sports, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Let us open up innovative frontiers and scale unimaginable heights. Forward ever, backward never. Success and prosperity are certain,” he said.
New Ziana
