By Admore Mbonda, Maphisa
MAPHISA — Thousands of Zimbabweans packed into Maphisa on Friday to commemorate the country’s 46th Independence Anniversary, as President Mnangagwa delivered a keynote address focused on unity, resilience, and a faster march toward development under Vision 2030.
Addressing the jubilant crowd gathered at the Independence celebrations, Mnangagwa set the tone by recalling the meaning of independence and the sacrifices made by Zimbabweans to secure freedom and democracy.
“Today marks another historic milestone as we celebrate our 46th Independence Anniversary under the theme ‘Zimbabwe at 46, Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030,” the President said, prompting loud cheers from residents who filled the venue in a show of pride.
The President used the occasion to pay tribute to liberation heroes and heroines, with special mention of Matabeleland South, which he described as a cornerstone in Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence.
“The struggle for Independence was executed by all Zimbabweans who transcended ethnic and regional lines. Their courage, resilience and fortitude saw us realise the Independence, freedom and democracy we enjoy today,” Mnangagwa said.
He further urged Zimbabweans to draw inspiration from nationalist icons, naming figures such as Joshua Nkomo, whose legacy, according to the President, continues to remind the nation of patriotism and selflessness.
“Their patriotism and selfless sacrifice for our motherland remain a source of inspiration to us all,” he added.
Inflation and Forex Inflows
Shifting from history to the present, Mnangagwa told the gathering that Zimbabwe remains on a recovery path, supported by a steadier macro-economic environment.
“The economy has registered commendable growth anchored on a stable macro-economic environment,” he said, revealing that foreign currency reserves now exceed US$1.2 billion.
Inflation, he said, has declined substantially, noting that the country recorded single-digit annual inflation of 4.1 percent in January 2026, a development he said has helped stabilise the ZiG currency.
He also highlighted the importance of export earnings and diaspora remittances, stating that foreign currency inflows have surpassed US$16 billion, driven by increased exports of gold, tobacco, and platinum group metals, alongside contributions from Zimbabweans abroad.
Agriculture featured prominently in Mnangagwa’s remarks, with the President announcing improved performance in the 2024/2025 summer season.
“The 2024/2025 summer season produced 2.4 million tonnes of maize, exceeding the national annual grain requirement,” he said, presenting the figures as a major achievement in food security efforts.
He added that wheat production had also surpassed targets, strengthening national resilience against food shortages.
However, Mnangagwa acknowledged that some regions continue to face climate-related shocks, including flooding and mid-season droughts.
“Regrettably, some areas continue to experience climate change-induced flooding and mid-season droughts,” he said, assuring citizens that government interventions would ensure food remains available.
“No one and no region will starve,” he emphasised.
Looking ahead, the President outlined modernisation initiatives aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and improving agricultural sustainability.
He referenced the construction of artificial intelligence-powered grain silos and the expansion of irrigation systems, saying these measures would help communities better withstand climate variability.
Mnangagwa also addressed mining and industrial development, projecting further growth in the sector and stressing the need for beneficiation.
“The mining sector has posted exceptional growth and is projected to reach 6.3 percent in 2026,” he said, calling on the nation to add value—particularly in minerals such as lithium
Roads and trade facilitation were another priority in the President’s speech.
“Mnangagwa said infrastructure development remains critical to unlocking economic opportunities, noting that efficient highways and border systems directly support business activity.
“Roads are an economy,” he said, while pointing to ongoing road upgrades and the installation of e-gates at border posts to speed up travel and trade.
On social development, Mnangagwa highlighted government programmes in. But he also delivered a stern warning on drug and substance abuse.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse needs the participation of all of us,” he said, urging families and communities to support rehabilitation programmes.
He also condemned harmful uses of digital platforms, particularly the spread of graphic content linked to road accidents.
“The recording of road traffic accidents and the subsequent distribution of such material is totally unacceptable, inhumane and against the values of Ubuntu,” he said, warning that authorities would act to protect citizens.
On foreign policy, Mnangagwa reiterated Zimbabwe’s approach of engagement and re-engagement.
“Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none,” he said, referencing upcoming global engagements including hosting regional summits and pursuing a seat on the United Nations Security Council.
He concluded with a message of collective responsibility, urging citizens not to rely on others to build the country.
“No one else will build our country Zimbabwe for us. That duty lies with us all,” he said to resounding applause.
The Maphisa commemorations—held under the theme “Zim@46 Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030” were marked by high attendance, patriotic speeches, and an atmosphere of national pride, as residents reflected on the past while focusing on the future.
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