By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Zimbabwe will this Friday join other Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states in commemorating Anti-Sanctions Day, observed annually on October 25.
The event will run under the theme “Inclusive Development through Heritage-Based Innovation and Industrialisation in a Multilateral World.”
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said preparations for the commemorations are at an advanced stage, with activities planned across the country and abroad.
“The Anti-Sanctions Day seeks to raise awareness about the negative impact of the illegal sanctions, celebrate the resilience of Zimbabweans under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr ED Mnangagwa, and reaffirm appreciation for regional and international solidarity,” said Muswere during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare.
President Mnangagwa is expected to deliver a national address outlining progress made in various sectors of the economy.
His message will also be shared through Zimbabwe’s embassies, which will engage international partners as part of the solidarity efforts.
The Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services will host an Anti-Sanctions solidarity gala at the Heritage Village in Harare, featuring performances by local artistes.
The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development will release a documentary on the growth of the SME sector, while the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, through the University of Zimbabwe, will host a public lecture and youth discussions.
The SADC Secretariat will issue a regional statement in support of Zimbabwe.
SADC declared October 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day in 2019 during the 39th Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The day is used to call for the unconditional removal of sanctions and to promote regional solidarity.