Source: Liberation Movements must lead Africa’s Economic Transformation- President Mnangagwa – herald
Nduduzo Tshuma in Johannesburg, South Africa
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has challenged Southern Africa’s liberation movements to shift from purely political guardianship to becoming the leading architects of economic transformation and industrial development across the continent.
Speaking at the Summit of Heads of State and Leaders of Liberation Movements in Johannesburg, President Mnangagwa said it was no longer enough for revolutionary parties to bask in past glories, stressing the urgent need to deliver tangible economic progress for the people.
“We have a sacred duty to retain power not for its own sake, but to advance the people’s agenda,” he said.
“Production, productivity and sustainable enterprises must now define our movements.”
He outlined Zimbabwe’s rural transformation model, anchored on borehole drilling and Village Business Units, as part of efforts to modernise the economy from the grassroots. He also highlighted youth-focused programmes in mining and agriculture, and economic reforms that are projected to deliver a 6% GDP growth this year.
“Our liberation legacy must now translate into household food security, rural incomes, affordable healthcare, education and access to basic services,” President Mnangagwa said.
With the summit themed “Defending the Liberation Gains, Advancing Integrated Socio-Economic Development, Strengthening Solidarity for a Better Africa,” President Mnangagwa noted that former liberation movements must adopt bold policies that position youth and women at the centre of industrialisation, innovation and infrastructure development.
He called for unity among liberation movements, urging them to overcome internal contradictions and defend the correct line of the revolution.
On international solidarity, President Mnangagwa reaffirmed ZANU PF’s support for the Saharawi and Palestinian causes and condemned sanctions on Zimbabwe, praising sister movements for their continued calls for their removal.
“We must look into the future with confidence,” he said.
“Let us boldly re-assert our independence, sovereignty, and the right to chart our own development path. The people’s power shall always remain secure under liberation movements.”
The summit brought together leaders from ZANU-PF, ANC, FRELIMO, MPLA, SWAPO and Chama Cha Mapinduzi.
All the leaders, in their speeches, committed to forging a new era of economic self-determination.
Meanwhile, China and Russia have committed to partnerships with Africa rooted on the continent’s culture and identity.
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