By Aldridge Dzvene
In a significant step toward strengthening South–South cooperation, this Tuesday, Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira paid a courtesy call on Hon. Horace Chang, Jamaica’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kingston, Jamaica. Prof. Amon Murwira was received on behalf of Prime Minister Andrew Holness, underscoring the importance both nations place on their longstanding diplomatic ties.
During the meeting, Prof. Murwira conveyed warm greetings from His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde. Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, and expressed gratitude for Jamaica’s hospitality, describing the visit as both diplomatic and deeply personal. He reflected on the historic and symbolic connection between the two nations, recalling the iconic visit of Bob Marley to Zimbabwe’s independence celebrations in 1980. “The symbolic importance of Marley and the song ‘Zimbabwe’ binds our nations,” Prof. Murwira noted, emphasizing the enduring cultural and political ties that have shaped relations for decades.
Both parties highlighted how shared historical experiences, particularly struggles against colonialism, continue to inform their cooperation in global forums such as the United Nations and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States.
A central focus of the visit was Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, which has been endorsed by the African Union as its sole candidate, and Zimbabwe is seeking Jamaica’s support in mobilizing backing across the Caribbean. “Zimbabwe seeks this seat as a voice for developing nations and for a more representative United Nations,” he said, stressing the need to reform global governance structures to reflect modern realities.
Deputy Prime Minister Chang welcomed Zimbabwe’s candidacy, affirming Jamaica’s commitment to ensuring that developing countries maintain a strong voice within multilateral institutions. “Unity among developing nations strengthens our ability to influence global decisions,” Hon. Chang said, noting that cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean is essential in navigating shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Both sides acknowledged that while diplomatic ties remain strong, economic engagement between Africa and the Caribbean remains underdeveloped, and Prof. Murwira called for renewed efforts to boost trade and investment, highlighting Zimbabwe’s “Open for Business” policy. He also proposed the revival of the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation between Zimbabwe and Jamaica, which last convened in 1999, as a mechanism to unlock new opportunities in trade, innovation, and capacity-building.
Deputy Prime Minister Chang echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of leveraging shared expertise and talent to drive economic growth. “We are not short of talent, what we need is to better utilize and connect our skills and technologies,” he said.
Climate change emerged as a key area of mutual concern, with both nations recognizing their vulnerability. Despite differing geographies, while Zimbabwe faces droughts, Jamaica contends with rising sea levels and intensifying storms. Prof. Murwira reiterated Zimbabwe’s support for global climate initiatives, including UN resolutions addressing sea-level rise, while also praising Caribbean leadership in advocating for climate justice and financial reform.
The discussion also touched on the global reparations movement, with Zimbabwe aligning itself with Caribbean efforts led through regional mechanisms to address the enduring impacts of slavery and colonialism. Security and governance formed another critical pillar of the dialogue, which Hon. Chang highlighted, noting the growing threat of transnational organized crime and stressing the need for international collaboration. “Criminal networks exploit weaknesses across borders, making cooperation essential,” he said, pointing to the value of sharing strategies and best practices between nations.
Both countries agreed that stronger institutional frameworks and governance systems are vital to building resilient societies and sustaining development. Beyond policy and diplomacy, the meeting emphasized the importance of cultural and people-to-people connections, from shared musical heritage to sporting ties such as cricket, as both countries see their relationship as one rooted not only in strategy but in identity and mutual understanding.
In conclusion, Prof. Murwira described his visit as “emotional,” noting that while he had long studied and admired Jamaica, experiencing the country first-hand reinforced the depth of the connection between the two nations. The visit marks a new chapter in Zimbabwe–Jamaica relations, reaffirming a shared commitment to cooperation in an increasingly complex global landscape.
As both countries continue to advocate for the interests of developing nations, their partnership stands as a model of cross-continental solidarity, built on history, strengthened by dialogue, and focused on a future of inclusive growth, resilience, and global influence.
