Majestic Victoria Falls
By Tanaka Gwanyanya
President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabweans to capitalize on the upcoming 44th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, emphasizing its potential for national development.
Speaking at the National Heroes Acre during the burial of the late national hero Brigadier General (Rtd) Michael Chaminuka, the President highlighted the significance of the forthcoming summit for Zimbabwe.
“Zimbabwe is a maturing constitutional democracy, focused on promoting and consolidating our position in the committee of nations.
“I commend the Government and people of our country who are accelerating preparations and works related to the hosting of the 44th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, where we will assume Chairmanship.”
The President noted that the historic event will be preceded by the SADC Industrialisation Week, scheduled for July 28 to August 2.
He encouraged industry stakeholders, including commerce, institutions of higher education, entrepreneurs, innovators, micro, small, and medium enterprises, to leverage this event to further accelerate Zimbabwe’s industrialization and modernization drive.
“Meanwhile, I call upon all stakeholders, including the private sector, to partner with my Administration and our Local Authorities to enhance the environmental ambiance, cleanliness, and beauty of our cities in preparation for the Summit and beyond,” he added.
The President also encouraged all Zimbabweans to continue working hard to ensure a peaceful, safe, and welcoming environment for visiting delegates.
“With unity of purpose across various sectors, let us collectively bear the weighty responsibility that hosting this important Summit entails,” he remarked.
The SADC Summit is an annual gathering of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), a regional economic community comprising 16 member states.
The summit provides a platform for regional leaders to discuss and address key issues affecting the region, including economic development, peace and security, and regional integration.
This year’s summit, themed “Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC,” aims to promote innovation and industrialization in the region.
