Scars of Sanctions: Mnangagwa’s Global Call on SADC Anti-Sanctions Day
Scars of two decades of Western-imposed sanctions remain etched across Zimbabwe’s economy.
Tomorrow, the nation will rise in unity as President Emmerson Mnangagwa leads SADC Anti-Sanctions Day commemorations, demanding the unconditional removal of measures blamed for stifling development and hurting ordinary citizens.
The President is expected to deliver a keynote address outlining government’s people-centred policies and economic progress made despite external pressures.
His message will be echoed by Zimbabwean embassies abroad, engaging host governments and international partners in coordinated solidarity efforts.
The SADC Secretariat will issue a regional statement backing Zimbabwe’s position, reinforcing the bloc’s call for justice and economic sovereignty.
Locally, the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services will host a solidarity gala at Heritage Village, featuring performances by top local artists.
The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development will launch a documentary showcasing the resilience and growth of Zimbabwe’s SMEs sector — a key pillar of inclusive development.
Meanwhile, the University of Zimbabwe will host a public lecture and student-led panel discussions to promote youth dialogue and awareness.
According to The Herald, thousands are expected to converge at Rufaro Stadium in Harare for a mass demonstration against the sanctions.
Economists estimate the measures have cost Zimbabwe over US$150 billion in lost investment, trade, and development opportunities.
In 2021, United Nations Special Rapporteur on unilateral coercive measures, Professor Alena Douhan, conducted a two-week fact-finding mission in Zimbabwe.
Her report was clear: “Sanctions on Zimbabwe imposed by Britain and the United States must go.
“They are hurting human rights,” she said, citing disproportionate suffering among women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
The Southern Africa University Debate Championship (SAUDC) has also joined the chorus of condemnation.
In a statement, Chairperson Mr Motsi Qoyi said,
“These illegal economic sanctions have long impeded Zimbabwe’s socio-economic growth, restricted trade and investment, and undermined the dignity and well-being of its citizens.”
Qoyi emphasized that Zimbabwe was the first nation to face severe economic sanctions following its liberation, yet continues to demonstrate resilience.
“Despite these unjust and oppressive sanctions, Zimbabwe has shown the Southern African Development Community (SADC) what it means to build a nation under such challenging circumstances,” he said.
He also expressed support for Zimbabwe’s national development slogan,
“Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo / Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo”, noting its widespread adoption, including by Zimbabweans in the diaspora through remittances and community development.
Qoyi added, “We recognise that these illegal economic sanctions not only hurt governments, but also devastate ordinary people, limiting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
“As a platform of intellectual and civic engagement, we vehemently reject all forms of economic oppression that hinder development and regional progress.”
He called on university students across the SADC region to unite their voices in denouncing the sanctions.
“Let the youth of Southern Africa rise as one generation — a generation that chooses unity over division, prosperity over deprivation, and justice over inequality.
“Lift the sanctions now!” said Mr Qoyi.
Tomorrow’s commemorations are expected to draw widespread participation from civil society, academia, government institutions, and the general public — all united in a message of defiance, dignity, and demand for economic justice.
