Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on citizens at home and abroad to work together to protect the country’s sovereignty and build a stronger economy, as the nation marked the 45th anniversary of National Heroes Day on Monday.
Speaking at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, Mnangagwa paid tribute to the thousands of men and women who fought and died in the liberation struggle, describing them as “gallant sons and daughters of the soil” whose sacrifices made independence possible in 1980. He also honoured living heroes for their service and patriotism.
“Today’s commemorations are not just a holiday. They must rekindle the spirit of sacrifice for which the heroes and heroines we are honouring today played their part,” Mnangagwa said. “The baton has been passed on to us.”
The ceremony included the awarding of national honours, such as the Royal Order of Munhumutapa, the Silver Cross of Zimbabwe, and the Robert Mugabe Commendation Award for Service in Human Capital Development. Medals were also conferred on veterans of the liberation struggle and long-serving civil servants.
Economic Progress and Challenges
Mnangagwa said the economy had grown from US$16 billion in 2018 to US$45.7 billion in 2024, despite challenges including sanctions, fluctuating commodity prices, and global trade instability. He projected 6% growth for 2025 and credited reforms under his administration, referred to as the “Second Republic,” for progress in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
He pointed to record maize, wheat, and tobacco harvests, as well as growth in livestock and dairy production. “Our heroes would be proud of the positive strides our farmers are making,” he said.
In manufacturing, local value chains and beneficiation are being promoted, contributing 15% to GDP. The mining sector remains a major driver of the economy, contributing over 13% to GDP and employing millions. Mnangagwa emphasised the need for responsible mining and environmental protection.
Infrastructure and Development
The President said infrastructure upgrades were central to economic growth. Key projects include the Harare–Masvingo–Beitbridge Highway, the Trabablas Interchange, and ongoing work on rural and urban roads such as the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls and Karoi–Binga routes.
He also highlighted rural development initiatives, such as borehole drilling, solar energy projects, internet access schemes, and “village business units” aimed at boosting local economies. Mnangagwa thanked Zimbabweans in the diaspora for contributing to housing developments and rural projects, noting that remittances remain a vital source of investment.
International Relations and Diaspora
Mnangagwa reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to maintaining “mutually beneficial” relations with other nations while protecting its independence. “Let no-one think they can engage us as masters. We are a sovereign and independent people,” he said.
Zimbabwe has submitted a bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term and has become a founding member of the International Organisation for Mediation, which focuses on peacekeeping and conflict resolution. Mnangagwa also acknowledged the support of countries that stood with Zimbabwe during the liberation struggle and pledged continued engagement in regional and global platforms.
He handed over the rotating chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to Madagascar, concluding Zimbabwe’s term under the theme “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustained Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialised SADC.”
Youth, Culture, and Climate
Mnangagwa stressed the importance of youth participation in economic development, the promotion of arts and culture, and investment in sports to combat drug abuse. He also addressed climate change, calling for “inclusive, climate-smart development” to protect future generations.
As the event closed, Mnangagwa urged unity across political, ethnic, and regional lines: “Through our unity, patriotism, focus, zeal, and hard work, as one nation, prosperity for all is becoming a reality. Forward ever, backward never.”
