In a compelling State of the Nation Address delivered yesterday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa underscored the vital importance of unity, stability, security, and development within Zimbabwe’s Second Republic. He highlighted the need to preserve social cohesion and reinforce the country’s unitary nature, firmly condemning divisive tendencies that threaten to sow discord among citizens based on regional, tribal, and socioeconomic differences.
President Mnangagwa’s message was clear and resonated with his past declarations, where he has consistently urged citizens to remain confident and steadfast in their collective efforts. He emphasized that through unity, hard work, and determination, Zimbabwe can achieve its ambitious goals as outlined in the Vision 2030 initiative, a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming the nation’s economy.
Under his leadership, Zimbabwe has enjoyed a climate of peace and tranquillity, which serves as a robust foundation for economic growth and prosperity. This prevailing stability has fostered an environment conducive to business development and investment, enabling the nation to flourish despite external challenges.
The President specifically called out the misguided secessionist rhetoric propagated by the Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP), which he accused of exploiting cultural heritage for a divisive agenda. He reiterated that Mthwakazi was not a kingdom or empire, but rather a representation of the rich cultural diversity that embodies unity, peace, and shared prosperity among the people of Zimbabwe. The idea of Mthwakazi, as the President asserted, celebrates harmonious coexistence and is far removed from the singular tribal narratives promoted by the rogue MRP.
Central to his address was the discussion of the Devolution Fund, an innovative initiative designed to promote the equitable distribution of resources across Zimbabwe’s unitary state. This fund empowers provincial and local authorities to drive development, improve service delivery, and address specific regional needs, thereby reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering growth in all corners of the nation.
President Mnangagwa warned that the unity of Zimbabweans must act as an impenetrable barrier against neo-imperialist forces attempting to undermine the nation. He pointed out various manifestations of interference from detractors, including political parties with regional agendas that seek to fragment society, organizations that exaggerate regional grievances, and media—especially social media—that propagate messages of hatred and division.
Reaffirming Zimbabwe’s commitment to remaining a unitary state, President Mnangagwa highlighted the significance of social cohesion and the rejection of divisive tendencies. He referenced the 2013 constitution, which enshrines the country as a unitary, democratic, and sovereign republic. This constitutional framework, he stated, ensures that Zimbabwe remains a strong and united nation, from Plumtree to Mutare and from Beitbridge to Chirundu.
As the address concluded, the President’s vision for a unified and prosperous Zimbabwe stood clear, reinforcing a message of resilience and hope amidst challenges, while calling on all citizens to stand together in the pursuit of national development and unity.
