The Second Republic’s efforts to improve Zimbabwe’s image are showing remarkable results, leading to increased recognition by multilateral institutions and various regional, continental, and international bodies. President Mnangagwa’s policy of Engagement and Re-engagement, under the motto “Friend to all, enemy to none,” has been instrumental in securing this honor for Zimbabwe.
One significant achievement of the Second Republic was convincing the SADC region that illegal sanctions imposed by the West were hindering economic progress. This catalyzed a campaign to remove these unilateral coercive measures, leading SADC to declare October 25 as SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, reinforcing the principle that “an injury to one is an injury to all.”
Zimbabwe has also made notable strides in securing employment for its nationals in key multilateral organizations. The country has invested substantial resources to place its citizens in strategic positions where they can influence crucial decisions. Notably, Dr. Judith Kateera serves as the Deputy Executive Secretary for Corporate Affairs at SADC and the Executive Director of the African Development Bank. These strategic placements enable Zimbabwe to advance its interests and voice its concerns on a global stage.
Leveraging good relations with other countries, the Second Republic has garnered support for its nationals’ bids for prominent roles. Hon Chief Senator Fortune Charumbira has twice been elected president of the Pan African Parliament. Zimbabwe also successfully supported Dr. Cosmas Zavazava’s bid to become Director of the Telecommunications Development Bureau at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
As a result of the successful Engagement and Re-engagement policy, Zimbabwe is set to host several significant regional and continental meetings. These include the first-ever United Nations Tourism Africa Gastronomy Forum in July 2024, the 44th SADC Summit in August 2024, and the Nordic-Africa Foreign Ministers Meeting in 2025. These events highlight the country’s enhanced reputation and mark a significant milestone in its engagement with multilateral institutions.
