HARARE, On Friday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa led the celebrations for Zimbabwe’s 45th independence anniversary in the central Midlands province, expressing appreciation for the country’s liberation efforts and subsequent development initiatives.
Despite the rain, the festive atmosphere remained vibrant as thousands of Zimbabweans gathered in Gokwe to celebrate 45 years of independence, featuring military displays as a highlight.
The president commenced the main festivities by participating in traditional activities associated with the occasion, including igniting the independence flame and reviewing a military parade.
In his address, Mnangagwa acknowledged that, despite the challenges posed by Western sanctions, the impacts of climate change, and global economic disturbances, Zimbabwe’s economy is still on a path of positive growth.
Following last year’s drought caused by El Niño, which reduced economic growth to 2 percent, the economy is anticipated to expand by 5.6 percent in 2025, slightly below the previous estimate of 6 percent, driven primarily by a resurgence in agriculture and mining sectors, according to Mnangagwa.
He expressed optimism for a substantial harvest in the upcoming 2024/2025 summer cropping season, which is expected to enhance food security for households.
Emphasising the importance of increased investments in agricultural endeavours to fully utilise land potential, Mnangagwa highlighted the necessity for dedication and ongoing efforts towards achieving economic prosperity and self-sufficiency.
“Through our own endeavours, let us continue to be a free, independent, and sovereign nation, in control of our future,” the president stated.
He noted that the Zimbabwean government is actively promoting agricultural transformation, rural development, and revitalisation, aiming to fulfill the vision of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
Unity, peace, and security are crucial for sustainable development and prosperity in Zimbabwe, he remarked, adding that the nation is fostering innovation, developing cross-border value chains, and enhancing public-private partnership opportunities to advance modernization and industrialization.
“Zimbabwe is on the brink of greater achievements. Let us remain focused, resilient, and steadfast, drawing inspiration from the many successes and milestones we have reached thus far,” he concluded.
