By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Victoria falls — President E. D. Mnangagwa has taken a leading role in advocating for Africa’s environmental sustainability and cultural sovereignty, emphasizing their vital roles in the continent’s development during his speech at the 28th ESARBICA General Conference held in Victoria Falls yesterday.
President Mnangagwa highlighted how climate change is increasingly threatening the preservation of archives and cultural sites across Africa. As extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and storms become more frequent and intense, he called on the continent to adopt resilient strategies that safeguard its cultural landmarks while addressing environmental challenges.
“Our archives and cultural landmarks are the custodians of our history.Protecting them requires innovative, climate-aware strategies, ” he stated.
Reaffirming Africa’s commitment to cultural reclamation, the President stressed that repatriating stolen artifacts is about more than restitution; it’s about restoring dignity and sovereignty.
“The return of artifacts and archives stolen or illicitly removed is not merely a matter of restitution; it is about restoring our dignity and sovereignty,” he emphasized.
He called for stronger regional cooperation and pointed to successful repatriation efforts as models for others to emulate, emphasizing the importance of Africa telling its own story and preserving its heritage from external distortions.
President Mnangagwa also urged engagement from academia, media, and civil society to advance these initiatives.
“Our history is our strength. Repatriation and climate resilience are intertwined, both are essential to building a resilient, proud, and autonomous Africa,” he added.
As he concluded his remarks, the President urged the conference to serve as a catalyst for tangible action, fostering partnerships that will ensure Africa’s cultural assets are protected from environmental threats and returned to their rightful homes.