Zimbabwe Committed to Regional Integration

Key Highlights from President Mnangagwa’s Speech at the 24th COMESA Summit

Nairobi, Kenya – Earlier today, His Excellency the President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa delivered a powerful address at the 24th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit, underscoring Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to regional integration, trade liberalization, and collective self-reliance.

The summit, held in Nairobi, Kenya, brings together leaders from across the COMESA region to discuss essential issues affecting trade, development, and cooperation.

President Mnangagwa opened his speech by expressing heartfelt gratitude towards Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

He praised the excellent arrangements made for the summit and commended the outgoing chairperson, President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, for his astute leadership over the past year.

This acknowledgment set a collaborative tone, emphasizing the importance of unity among member states.

A core theme of President Mnangagwa’s address was Zimbabwe’s commitment to the ideals of regional integration.

He articulated that COMESA serves as a vital platform for fostering multi-faceted cooperation. He highlighted that the pooling of resources and harmonization of policies are essential for promoting intra-regional trade and investment.

This commitment to integration reflects Zimbabwe’s recognition of the tangible benefits derived from COMESA membership, especially in accessing wider regional markets for its businesses.

The President emphasized the role that COMESA plays in empowering small-scale traders, particularly women and youth.

He noted that simplified trade regimes have eased cross-border commerce, enabling thousands of small traders to benefit from regional integration.

This focus on inclusivity is crucial for enhancing economic participation among marginalized groups.

Despite the progress made, President Mnangagwa acknowledged that challenges remain.

He pointed out the need to address non-tariff barriers, infrastructure gaps, and policy misalignments that hinder COMESA’s full potential.

He called for renewed efforts to implement key initiatives such as the COMESA-EAC-SADC Tripartite Free Trade Area and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This emphasis on overcoming obstacles is vital for ensuring the success of regional trade initiatives.

The President also shared insights into Zimbabwe’s ongoing journey of economic transformation and modernization.

He outlined the comprehensive reforms his government is implementing to improve the business environment, enhance productivity, and attract investment.

Key focus areas include industrialization, digital transformation, and climate-resilient agriculture, all of which align with COMESA’s Medium-Term Strategic Plan.

This commitment to reform is essential for positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the regional economy.

Highlighting the importance of peace and security, President Mnangagwa reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to good governance as fundamental ingredients for sustainable development.

He expressed readiness to work with fellow member states to promote stability and consolidate democratic institutions.

This focus on governance is critical for addressing transnational threats that undermine collective progress and prosperity.

In his address, the President invoked the aspirations of Agenda 2063, “The Africa We Want,” emphasizing that these goals are achievable through collective efforts.

He urged all leaders to harness their strengths and leverage opportunities to propel COMESA to new heights.

This call to action emphasizes the shared responsibility of all member states in realizing the continent’s potential.

President Mnangagwa concluded his speech with a powerful message of hope and determination.

He called for unity among member states to deliver on the promise of a better future for the people of Africa.

His vision for regional cooperation resonates deeply, as leaders face an array of challenges that require collaborative solutions.

The 24th COMESA Summit represents a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe and the entire region.

With President Mnangagwa’s commitment to integration, empowerment, and governance, the summit serves as a reaffirmation of the shared goals and aspirations of COMESA member states.

As leaders depart from Nairobi, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a collective resolve to work towards a prosperous future for all Africans.