Staff Reporter

Today, marks 37 years since the signing of Zimbabwe’s historic Unity Accord, a pivotal moment that brought peace and stability to the nation.

Speaking on the occasion, President Emmerson Mnangagwa reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to its national development agenda, despite challenges over the years.

On December 22, 1987, the Unity Accord was signed by the nation’s founding fathers, Cde Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo and Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe, ending post-independence unrest and fostering harmony among Zimbabweans. Reflecting on this landmark agreement, President Mnangagwa underscored its enduring significance.

“This day will forever be etched in our national calendar as a somber reminder of our individual and collective duty to defend, promote, and consolidate the grand national heritage of peace, unity, and love,” he said. “Since the 1987 Unity Accord, our nation has stood firm and united even in difficult times.”

President Mnangagwa noted that the early years of post-independence unrest hindered Zimbabwe’s socio-economic progress, but commended the nation’s resilience in overcoming these challenges. He highlighted Zimbabwe’s determination to build a prosperous future for all citizens, guided by a spirit of unity and shared purpose.

“The numerous attacks and ill will we have endured from detractors over the years were aimed at sowing seeds of division and disunity. However, the people of this great nation have remained vigilant and resolute. Our trials and tribulations have become the wind beneath our wings, propelling us to greater heights like the fish eagle that adorns our sacred national flag,” he said.

The President celebrated Zimbabwe’s progress, citing evident transformation in various sectors of the economy. He emphasized the unity of Zimbabweans in their diversity, describing the nation as a “solid unitary state.”

“Although our norms, customs, languages, and cultures are diverse, we remain a composite and solid unitary state. From Zambezi to Limpopo, Plumtree to Mutare, and across the most remote villages, we sing with pride one national anthem and fly one national flag. We are diverse but one,” President Mnangagwa remarked.

This year’s Unity Day celebrations coincide with significant achievements under the Second Republic, including securing land tenure and empowering beneficiaries of the land reform program. President Mnangagwa stressed that the return of land to its people is a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and a triumph of unity and sovereignty.

Unity Day, a national holiday, serves as a reminder of the peace and stability achieved through the Unity Accord. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the collective strength and resilience of Zimbabweans as they continue to build a brighter future for generations to come.