Dr Nobert Hosho poses for a photo with Palestinian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Dr Tamer Almassri
By Dickson Bandera
Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust (ZAST) Founder and President, Dr. Norbert Hosho, launched his latest book, Allies in Adversity: The Sino-Zimbabwean Partnership from 2014 to 2024, at a vibrant event in Harare this Friday.
The book explores Zimbabwe’s decade-long alliance with China, particularly amid the country’s ongoing resistance against economic sanctions.
The book launch aligned with Southern African Development Community (SADC) Anti-Sanctions Day, a regional observance dedicated to the fight against illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.
Dr. Hosho addressed a distinguished audience of academics, business community, human rights advocates, diplomats, and students, underscoring the significance of the Zimbabwe-China relationship in the face of sanctions.
“This book is more than a historical account; it is a tribute to Zimbabwe’s resilience and our friendship with China,” he stated, emphasizing that Allies in Adversity is a crucial study of international cooperation in the face of economic and political challenges.
The event also marked the tenth anniversary of ZAST, an organization Dr. Hosho lauded for its tireless advocacy against the economic sanctions that have impacted Zimbabwe’s economy and sovereignty.
He highlighted ZAST’s role in fostering national resilience and called for global acknowledgment of Zimbabwe’s right to self-determination.
The book, divided into six chapters, examines various aspects of the Sino-Zimbabwean relationship. It opens by tracing the alliance’s roots back to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and progresses to discuss China’s recent contributions through infrastructure, mining, and agricultural initiatives.
Dr. Hosho argued that China’s investments have significantly bolstered Zimbabwe’s economy during the sanction years and pointed to diplomatic and cultural exchanges as vital to strengthening the countries’ bilateral ties.
Among those present was Dr. Tamer Almassri, the Palestinian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, whom Dr. Hosho recognized as a symbol of shared struggle against external pressures.
Dr. Almassri, an outspoken advocate for Zimbabwe’s anti-sanctions stance, has previously highlighted Zimbabwe’s plight on international platforms, advocating for respect for the nation’s sovereignty. His presence, Dr. Hosho noted, underscored the unity among nations facing similar challenges.
Dr. Hosho concluded by urging for continued solidarity among nations dealing with external adversities.
“This partnership reflects a vision of unity, resilience, and cooperation,” he remarked, encouraging the audience to reflect on the broader impact of alliances in overcoming adversity.
The launch of Allies in Adversity serves as a reminder of Zimbabwe’s diplomatic endeavors and its commitment to fostering international solidarity.
Through this work, Dr. Hosho aims to deepen understanding of the Sino-Zimbabwean alliance and inspire global dialogue on resilience and cooperation amidst economic hardship.