The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) amplified calls for the unconditional lifting of sanctions pointing out that they are affecting Zimbabwe and the region as well.
A statement issued by the block on the occasion of the Anti-Sanctions Day highlighted the impact of the sanctions on humanity, the people of Zimbabwe and the region.
“The appeal by SADC for the lifting of sanctions on the Republic of Zimbabwe rests on the backdrop of growing concern over the impact these sanctions continue to pose on the country and the SADC region”, read the statement by SADC Chairperson, His Excellency Mr Joao Lourenco, President of the Republic of Angola.
The regional block affirmed its unwavering solidarity with the government of Zimbabwe and its people in calling for the lifting of the illegal sanctions.
On paper the United States and its Western Allies, especially Britain call them “targeted” sanctions when in reality they are economic sanctions which have caused untold suffering of the people of Zimbabwe.
Because of sanctions Zimbabwe has faced hurdles in trying to get lines of credit from international financiers and donors.
Sanctions are an impediment to the growth of Zimbabwe resulting in the country lagging behind in terms of development.
Sanctions have remained in place despite calls for their lifting by the Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral measures on the enjoyment of human rights, Alena Gouhan on her visit to Zimbabwe.
SADC’s call for removal of sanctions is premised on the desire for Zimbabwe to take the lead in national and regional growth and substantively develop in critical areas of good governance.
Given the dire food security vulnerability in the world sanctions have caused a double-imposed threat to people’s well being and survival.
The Sadc Anti-Sanctions Day, meant to call for the removal of illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the West, was adopted by Sadc at its 39th Summit at the recommendation of the late President of Tanzania, John Pombe Magufuli.
The declaration of October 25 by Sadc as the Anti-Sanctions Day is a product of President Mnangagwa’s engagement and re-engagement policy.
As the sanctions removal call grow louder we call upon the United States of America and its Western allies to remove them unconditionally and allow Zimbabwe to prosper.
