President Emmerson Mnangagwa inaugurated ZANU PF’s 21st National People’s Conference in Bulawayo, rallying members to uphold Zimbabwe’s guiding pillars of unity, peace, and development.
The conference, a major event on ZANU PF’s calendar, drew delegates from all provinces and sectors, representing Zimbabweans from all walks of life. In his opening remarks, President Mnangagwa expressed gratitude to Bulawayo for its warm welcome and noted the city’s reputation as a leading conferencing hub.
The president highlighted ZANU PF’s substantial strides in driving Zimbabwe’s economic growth, emphasizing that agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development are at the heart of the party’s achievements. Notable among these advancements is the Agriculture Food Systems and Transformation Strategy, which, together with the Pfumvudza/Intwasa program, has significantly bolstered Zimbabwe’s food security. This has led to a bumper winter wheat harvest, marking another milestone for the country’s agricultural sector. Further economic growth is evident in Zimbabwe’s mining industry, which now operates at 84% capacity with projections set to reach 90% by 2025. The president underlined the role of artisanal and small-scale miners, noting their contribution to national exports and the mining sector’s substantial role in Zimbabwe’s economy.
President Mnangagwa also pointed to the ongoing development of critical infrastructure, such as upgrades to the Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls and Harare-Chirundu highways. He spoke on the construction of key water resources, which will soon bring water from the Gwayi-Shangani Dam to Bulawayo and, in the future, from Kunzvi Dam to Harare.
The president took the opportunity to reaffirm ZANU PF’s commitment to youth empowerment through Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model. This approach equips Zimbabwe’s youth with the skills needed to lead innovation, create new industries, and drive Zimbabwe’s socio-economic transformation. President Mnangagwa encouraged traditional leaders to continue fostering community harmony and respect for Zimbabwe’s heritage among the younger generation, nurturing a sense of unity and patriotism.
The conference also aligned with SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, which underscores Zimbabwe’s solidarity with the region and the pressing call for the removal of sanctions against the nation. Mnangagwa urged for their immediate and unconditional lifting, framing them as an obstacle to Zimbabwe’s economic growth. He stressed that despite sanctions, ZANU PF remains steadfast in leading Zimbabwe towards prosperity and self-sufficiency, as evidenced by its growing alliances within SADC.
President Mnangagwa concluded by stressing the importance of unity and discipline within the party, reiterating that ZANU PF is “a moving train” committed to Zimbabwe’s independence and development. As the conference continues, delegates are set to engage in discussions aimed at advancing ZANU PF’s development objectives and deepening socio-economic progress across Zimbabwe.
