Harare, (New Ziana) —President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is also the ruling ZANU PF First Secretary, on Wednesday reaffirmed the commitment of the party to a people-centred development agenda, economic transformation and regional cooperation.
Addressing the 392nd Ordinary Session of the Zanu PF Politburo, HE said the meeting came on the heels of a “hugely successful” commemorations of 46 years of Zimbabwe’s Independence, held in Maphisa, Matabeleland South province.
He commended party members and citizens for the strong turnout, describing it as a clear demonstration of the value Zimbabweans place on their freedom, sovereignty and national unity.
“This Session is convened at the backdrop of our hugely successful commemorations of 46 years of our national Independence in Maphisa, Matabeleland South province. I commend the Party membership, Matabeleland South province and all other provinces for the singleness of purpose reflective throughout the celebration of our national Independence Day,” he said.
“The turn-out and attendance of our people to the celebrations were commendable. This demonstrated the importance accorded to our national Independence, freedom and sovereignty,” he added.
President Mnangagwa also hailed the success of the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, which he said surpassed expectations in both local and international participation.
He noted that the increased exhibitor participation reflected growing confidence in the country’s economy and the impact of the “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” policy.
President Mnangagwa added that the party’s exhibition stand attracted significant interest, serving as a platform for engagement, mobilisation and recruitment, while reinforcing the role of ZANU PF in shaping the economic trajectory of the country.
“It is this colossal mass Party that sets the correct direction for sustainable development. We remain the backbone for a united, stronger, equitable and more prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.
He underscored the commitment of the party to maintaining close ties with citizens, saying all policies and programs should prioritise the needs and aspirations of the people, while urging the party leadership to clearly communicate the government development agenda, and remain steadfast in advancing national unity and economic growth.
“The generality of the grassroot membership, and all citizens stand assured that ZANU PF shall continue to adhere to the principle of putting the people first. We are unflinching in our commitment to maintaining close bond with them, advancing their aspirations and concerns as well as meeting their needs,” he said.
Hence, all policies, programs and projects must always be contexualised as part of our continuous work to realise prosperity for all. To this end, I want to emphasize that under the Second Republic, ZANU PF will never divert from the ongoing agenda to unite, develop and lead the nation towards a bettter life for all, no matter the challenges,” he added.
On the economic front, President Mnangagwa highlighted the country’s shift towards value addition and beneficiation, saying it is redefining Zimbabwe’s position in global value chains.
He described the export of the country’s first lithium sulphate consignment as a “historic achievement” that signals progress in industrialisation.
Turning to foreign relations, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe continues to strengthen bilateral ties across Africa and referenced his recent State visit to Ghana, the first in 46 years, where the inaugural Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation was held, opening new avenues for economic collaboration.
He also pointed to strengthened ties with Botswana through the 5th Bi-National Commission, as well as Zimbabwe’s participation in celebrations marking 40 years of the reign of King Mswati III in Eswatini.
President Mnangagwa urged stakeholders to leverage emerging opportunities on the continent, including the zero-tariff policy for African goods under China’s Common Development Initiative, which he said could unlock new export markets and strengthen cross-border value chains.
He called on Politburo secretaries to adopt a more coordinated approach in crafting sector-specific policies aimed at driving industrial growth, strengthening institutions and creating employment.
President Mnangagwa also reminded party leaders of their obligations under the party constitution, urging them to re-acquaint themselves with provisions relating to the duties of members as outlined in the amended 2022 charter.
“This includes identifying priority areas in industry and commerce, as well as strengthening institutional frameworks to consolidate economic growth while also creating wealth and employment opportunities for our people. As the Politburo, we are all first and foremost Party members, guided by the Party Constitution, fundamentally with regards to our duties and obligations,” he said.
New Ziana
