Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for a renewed sense of patriotism among Zimbabweans, urging citizens to dedicate their efforts to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
Speaking at a national gathering yesterday, President Mnangagwa reflected on the progress made under the 2nd Republic and stressed the importance of unity, faith, and national pride in achieving Zimbabwe's long-term goals.
"This year's theme is inspiring and energizing. Looking back at the successes scored under the 2nd Republic, we see the goodness of the Lord. He has not left us. We are leaving no one and no place behind," he said.
The President also stressed the importance of the Church in supporting national development, commending religious leaders across denominations for their efforts.
"I commend the Church across all denominations for their efforts towards the development of our motherland," he said.
Quoting Psalm 137:5-6, the President emphasized the necessity of putting the country first:
“If I forget Zimbabwe, let my right hand forget its skill. If I do not remember nor prefer Zimbabwe above my own joy, let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth,” the President urged, calling for individual and collective patriotism.
President Mnangagwa underscored the government's commitment to national development, particularly in sectors, such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and education.
"In agriculture, we are not surrendering to the challenges of climate change; we are building dams and sinking boreholes. Zimbabwe is committed to constructing its future brick by brick," he said.
Addressing the youth, the President urged them to resist efforts by "detractors" seeking to undermine the nation.
"The youth are challenged to resist the machinations of detractors who seek to forsake our motherland," Mnangagwa asserted.
The President also commended the peace and stability in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, welcoming regional leaders to the event.
"We are grateful to the Lord for the peace in the SADC region. In this spirit, I welcome those from across SADC to this service."
His speech centered on the importance of unity, love and trust in God, citing biblical verses to reinforce his message of collective effort. "Love, peace, unity, and harmony are the greatest gifts we must bequeath to future generations," he said, quoting 1 Corinthians 13.
As the nation prepares for the year ahead, Pres Mnangagwa encouraged all Zimbabweans to dedicate themselves to the country's development and to remain committed to achieving Vision 2030.The President’s address marks a call to action for Zimbabweans to embrace patriotism and work together toward the realization of the country's development goals in the coming years.
