President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to support the National Anti-Sanctions Petition Programme by participating in its digital campaign, launched in Bulawayo on Friday.
The initiative coincides with the 5th SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, themed “Embracing Innovation Towards Vision 2030: A Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions,” and the annual Zanu-PF National People’s Conference at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
Mnangagwa’s call for the removal of sanctions comes amid assertions from the U.S. government that Zimbabwe is not under blanket sanctions, but that measures are targeted against specific individuals and companies accused of corruption and human rights violations. Currently, 11 individuals, including Mnangagwa, and three companies face these restrictions.
Speaking at the launch, Mnangagwa criticised the sanctions, stating that they restrict the ability of Zimbabwean businesses to engage in international trade.
“Sanctions are strangling our economy, undermining our right to self-determination, and compromising our collective development aspirations,” he said. “They have limited our ability to trade freely, restricted access to international financial support, stifled investment, and reduced our capacity to invest in social services. This has negatively impacted the lives and livelihoods of ordinary citizens, particularly women, children, and the vulnerable.”
Mnangagwa argued that the sanctions are hindering Zimbabwe’s efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. He commended the resilience of Zimbabweans working toward the country’s development despite these challenges.
“In the face of these realities, which threaten our sovereignty and integrity, it is our duty to redouble our efforts to boost production, productivity, and transformational projects for the prosperity of our motherland, Zimbabwe,” Mnangagwa emphasized.
“I salute the resolve of the people of this great nation, a resolve that cannot be broken. Our unity, resilience, resourcefulness, and determination will ultimately break the stranglehold of sanctions. Together, we are overcoming the negative impacts of these unjust measures, building a stronger economy and society,” he added.
The president highlighted the role of the digital platform in amplifying citizens’ opposition to sanctions, urging media outlets and anti-sanctions organizations to educate the public on the impact of these measures.
“This initiative allows citizens to digitally sign a petition, expressing their rejection of sanctions through online platforms. Media houses, practitioners, and other anti-sanctions groups are encouraged to support this effort,” Mnangagwa said.
“The rapid convergence of the broadcasting sector, including community radio stations and ICTs, should expand access to anti-sanctions information in both rural and urban areas. It is our collective duty to raise awareness about the harmful effects of these sanctions on our country and its people,” he concluded.
