Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday praised Zimbabwean women for their contribution to national development, describing them as a driving force behind socio-economic transformation and attainment of the vision to attain upper middle income status by 2030.
Speaking at the 2026 Recognition of Top Women Leadership event held at the State House in Harare, President Mnangagwa said women across various sectors continue to demonstrate resilience, patriotism and exceptional leadership despite prevailing challenges.
“Women play a pivotal role in the advancement of sustainable innovative solutions and community driven development. They nurture families and help build stronger institutions, as they instill values and norms for ethical leadership,” he said.
He said the recognition ceremony was meant to honour women who have excelled in political, economic and social spheres including health, tourism, governance, finance, academia and philanthropy.
“This occasion equally celebrates fortitude, resilience, compassion and sacrifice. It is our humble way to honour women whose unwavering commitment continues to transform lives, strengthen communities and contribute immensely towards national development and the attainment of Vision 2030,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also commended First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa for her humanitarian and social welfare programs being implemented through the Angel of Hope Foundation.
He said her initiatives in drug and substance abuse rehabilitation, health delivery, environmental conservation and community empowerment were complementing Government efforts.
“Through the Angel of Hope Foundation, the First Lady is spearheading the implementation of rehabilitation and wellness programs towards addressing the drug and substance abuse menace,” he said, adding that rehabilitation centres such as the one established in Mbare were helping to restore hope among affected youths.
President Mnangagwa further applauded the efforts of the First Lady in supporting vulnerable groups including orphans, persons with disabilities, the elderly and disadvantaged communities.
He also highlighted the growing influence of women in politics and governance, noting that more women were now occupying strategic leadership positions under the Second Republic.
President Mnangagwa singled out Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri for her liberation war credentials and service in Government, describing her as one of the courageous women who endured hardships during the liberation struggle.
“In the political area, we have many women who participated in the armed liberation struggle for independence and freedom. They remained brave, steadfast and committed despite the perilous conditions and brutality of the racist Smith regime,” he said.
He also recognised the contribution of the Minister of Tourism Barbara Rwodzi in the tourism sector, saying her leadership had helped reposition the Zimbabwe brand and boost economic growth.
International tourist arrivals rose by 11 percent during the first quarter of 2026 to more than 384 000 visitors, while tourism receipts increased by 14 percent to about US$251 million, he noted.
President Mnangagwa also praised women serving in the judiciary, academia, agriculture, security services and health sectors for breaking barriers and strengthening institutions.
He noted that women constituted about 61 percent of farmers in Zimbabwe and provided 70 percent of agricultural labour, making them central to the country’s food security agenda.
“Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, with approximately 61 percent of farmers being women, and providing 70 percent of agriculture labour. Thus, the work of women farmers is essential for food security,” he said, and urged women leaders to continue mentoring young people as well as promoting inclusive development.
“They say if you educate and empower a woman you have educated and empowered a nation. I urge you to deliberately scale up initiatives that will mentor both young girls and boys in your respective fields of endeavours,” he said.
President Mnangagwa reiterated the commitment of the government to ensuring that no citizen is excluded from development opportunities.
“No one and no gender must be left behind. Ongoing women and youth empowerment and training programs as well as income-generating projects, capacity building and community-based initiatives should be all-inclusive,” he said.
He challenged women being honoured at the event to remain role models and continue serving the nation with distinction.
“To all the women being recognised today, we say thank you, for your sacrifices, leadership, compassion and unwavering dedication towards building a prosperous Zimbabwe,” said the President.
New Ziana
