Harare Post Reporter

In a momentous speech marking the 36th anniversary of the historic Unity Day Accord signed on December 22, 1987, President Emmerson Mnangagwa reiterated the enduring importance of the Unity Accord as a guiding principle for Zimbabwe.

The President said that the Accord, signed by the country's forefathers, the late President Cde Robert Mugabe and the late Vice President Cde Joshua Nkomo, continues to shape the nation's character.

"The historic Unity Accord remains a guiding character for our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe. Riding on this timeless heritage, we must accelerate the attainment of our shared national vision for inclusive development and a modernised, industrialised, prosperous, and empowered society," affirmed President Mnangagwa.

Challenging every Zimbabwean on National Unity Day, President Mnangagwa called for a recommitment to safeguard, preserve, and promote the nation's heritage for the benefit of present and future generations.

The President emphasised that the nation was moving forward with hope and determination, crafting a brighter and more prosperous future that leaves no one or no community behind.

Under the Second Republic, President Mnangagwa pledged to accelerate development in areas affected by the disturbances of the early 1980s, addressing the needs of affected communities for genuine, sustainable, broad-based, and inclusive empowerment.

He reinforced the idea of Zimbabwe as a unitary state, emphasising unity under one national flag and anthem and rejecting divisive tactics reminiscent of colonialism and opportunistic neo-liberal strategies.

Introducing a new developmental philosophy, President Mnangagwa declared, "The Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo mantra must now be turned to Musha ne dunhu zvinovakwa nevene vazvo."

President Mnangagwa affirmed his Government's commitment to continuing developmental activities aimed at uplifting the lives of the general populace.

In the spirit of the season, President Mnangagwa extended heartfelt wishes, saying, "I wish all Zimbabweans a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2024."

As the nation commemorates this significant day, the President's words resonate with a call for unity, progress, and a collective commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Zimbabwe for all its citizens.