Lilongwe, Malawi – Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states gathered in Malawi’s capital on Wednesday to commemorate Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Day, urging the immediate and unconditional lifting of sanctions imposed on the country.
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Malawi, Dr. Nancy Saungweme, highlighted the devastating impact of the 24-year sanctions on Zimbabwe’s economy and people. She lamented the country’s decline from being the “breadbasket of Africa” to its current economic state.
Dr. Saungweme emphasized that the sanctions not only harm Zimbabwe but also negatively affect neighboring countries. She called on the international community to recognize the widespread impact and urged the West to end the punitive measures.
A joint statement issued by SADC member states, the Malawi government, and other stakeholders reaffirmed their collective stance against the sanctions. The statement highlighted the sanctions’ severe impact on Zimbabwe’s economy, regional development, and its ability to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
South Africa’s Ambassador to Malawi, Yvette Myakayaka Manzini, presented the joint statement, expressing optimism that lifting the sanctions would revive key sectors in Zimbabwe, such as mining, tourism, and energy, and boost the participation of women and youth in the nation’s development.
The theme of this year’s commemoration, “Embracing Innovation towards Vision 2030: The Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions,” underscored the region’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s socio-economic recovery and progress.
Several ambassadors and High Commissioners from SADC member states attended the event, standing in solidarity with Zimbabwe and calling for the country’s re-engagement with the international community.
