Richard Muponde
Zimpapers Politics Hub
Since taking office in 2017, President Mnangagwa has demonstrated a proactive commitment to transforming Zimbabwe’s economy and infrastructure, aiming for an upper middle-class economy by 2030.
His administration has successfully completed over 8 000 projects nationwide, showcasing a vigorous approach to governance aligned with the “Vision 2030 of an Upper Middle-Class Economy”.
Upon assuming the presidency, President Mnangagwa hit the ground running and implemented key strategies, starting with the launch of the Temporary Stabilisation Programme (TSP), which concluded in 2023.
This was followed by the National Development Strategy 1, the cornerstone of Vision 2030.
Under the guiding principles of “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Wayo” (the country is built by its people) and “No one, No Place will be left Behind,” he has fostered citizen participation in the development process, ensuring inclusive progress for all communities.
Under his leadership, Zimbabwe has seen notable advancements across various sectors.
In agriculture, the country achieved a record wheat output, surpassing the previous record set in 1964. This achievement not only bolsters food security, but also stimulates the agricultural economy significantly.
Major infrastructural initiatives, including the construction of power stations, roads, and the New Parliament building, along with improvements at Robert Mugabe International Airport, underscore the Government’s commitment to modernising the nation’s infrastructure.
Additionally, President Mnangagwa’s administration has prioritised issuing title deeds to farmers, allowing them to leverage their land for financing, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting financial independence.
These initiatives exemplify President Mnangagwa’s capability to translate vision into action, reinforcing his image as a leader focused on tangible outcomes despite the challenges posed by Western sanctions.
Analysts have hailed him as a man of action dedicated to uplifting the livelihoods of the people.
Prominent businessman and Head of the Land Tenure Implementation Committee, Mr Kuda Tagwirei, remarked during ZBC’s “Face the Nation” programme last Thursday that President Mnangagwa embodies the interests of the masses.
He noted, “Our national debt stands at approximately US$21 billion. With a single stroke of genius, the President has addressed the challenges faced by farmers lacking access to finance. He has ensured that constitutional provisions are met, enabling farmers to transfer their land for value, as long as the recipient is a citizen. These provisions have been successfully implemented.”
“Now, the Government possesses an asset. For business people like myself, avoiding insolvency is crucial. Many claim Zimbabwe is insolvent, yet through two strokes of genius from President Mnangagwa, we have restored value by awarding title deeds to farmers and establishing the Mutapa Investment Fund.
“This fund is valued at around US$16 billion, while the assets from title deeds exceed US$10 billion. In just six months, the President has positioned the country towards solvency while granting farmers affordable access to finance.”
Mr Tagwirei added that within the next decade, with security of tenure, farmers would experience substantial growth. Currently, the children of war veterans are assured their inherited farms are secure from arbitrary dispossession.
The same legal principles will be used in transferring wealth from deceased estates to living individuals.
Political and economic analyst, Mr Naboth Paurosi Dzivaguru, executive director of Global Economics 2020 Consultancy Group, acknowledged President Mnangagwa as a leader of exceptional calibre who understands what needs to be done.
“From the outset, his goal has been to elevate Zimbabwe’s economic development. He declared in 2017 his awareness of the expectations of Zimbabweans and his commitment to meeting them, despite internal and external challenges. If not for economic sanctions, Zimbabwe could have emerged as a regional economic powerhouse,” he stated.
“There are two essential qualities of leadership: humanity and discipline. President Mnangagwa possesses both, which are pivotal for the nation’s prosperity. A country’s economic development thrives under transparent leadership, and President ED exemplifies this,” he affirmed, reiterating that the President is indeed a man of action.
To sustain the momentum of development initiated by President Mnangagwa and achieve the goal of an upper middle-class economy by 2030, Government is enhancing citizen participation by encouraging grassroots involvement in planning and executing projects that align with community needs.
President Mnangagwa has shown unwavering dedication to progress through action-oriented leadership and strategic initiatives that address Zimbabwe’s pressing needs.
As the current Chairperson of SADC, he sets a precedent for economic development in the region, illustrating how leaders can effectively work for the betterment of their nations.
His approach serves as a model within the SADC, highlighting the significance of focusing on development, citizen engagement, and resilience in the face of external challenges.
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