Chief Bekezela Bhekimpi Nyathi Vice President UANC and Michael Nyamande UANC Secretary General at a Press conference in Harare
By George Swarei
Harare, Zimbabwe— Chief Bekezela Bhekimpi Nyathi, Vice President of the United African National Council (UANC), expressed strong optimism regarding Zimbabwe’s upcoming role as host of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit. Speaking at a press conference on behalf of UANC President Reverend Gwinyai Muzorewa, Nyathi highlighted the potential benefits the summit could bring to the country, despite political differences with current President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Nyathi, who was accompanied by UANC Secretary General Michael Nyamande, acknowledged the significance of Zimbabwe assuming the Chairmanship of SADC, with President Mnangagwa set to be conferred as the new SADC Chair. He emphasized the importance of this occasion for Zimbabwe’s progress and development, urging unity among Zimbabweans and calling on opposition parties to set aside differences for the greater good of the nation.
“The UANC has consistently called upon the people of Zimbabwe to unite,” said Nyathi. “Despite our differences with President Mnangagwa, we recognize the significance of hosting the SADC Summit and the potential benefits it may bring, provided we remain steadfast in our commitment to fulfilling our responsibilities.”
Nyathi outlined several key benefits that Zimbabwe could gain from hosting the summit, including enhanced political and economic cooperation with regional partners, increased trade and investment opportunities, and the promotion of regional integration. He also noted that the summit presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to showcase its potential on the international stage, attract foreign direct investment, and benchmark its policies against global standards.
However, Nyathi emphasized that in order to fully benefit from hosting the SADC Summit, Zimbabwe must take several actions. These include actively engaging in SADC meetings, fostering closer ties with neighboring countries, advocating for the implementation of regional policies, and demonstrating a commitment to good governance and economic reforms.
“Hosting the SADC Summit and the ascendancy of President Mnangagwa to the SADC Chairmanship present us with immense opportunities for growth and development,” Nyathi concluded. “It is crucial that we seize this moment and work together to maximize the benefits that come with this honor.”
The UANC leader called on all Zimbabweans to unite and work towards a prosperous future, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the country’s potential to attract foreign investment and drive economic growth. “Together, we can overcome challenges, build a brighter future, and position Zimbabwe as a beacon of hope and prosperity in the SADC region and beyond,” he said.
The SADC Summit, which will be hosted by Zimbabwe, is seen as a pivotal moment for the country as it seeks to strengthen its position within the regional bloc and advance its Vision 2030 development goals.
