By Zivanai Dhewa
Founder and Executive Chairman of Econet Wireless, Strive Masiyiwa has called for the removal of sanctions on Zimbabwe saying the punitive measures are unjustified and Zimbabwe deserves to be given a chance to revive its economy.
Speaking during an interview at Capital Connectivity Africa (CNBC) Masiyiwa said, “I think sanctions should be removed, there is no justification for them anymore, and I have always been on record to say the sanctions are not justified and now we are almost 20 years into the sanctions, you cannot have one country operating with its hands tied behind its back.”
Making reference to the 2nd Republic, Masiyiwa commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s efforts to revive the economy.
“Concerning the change that has taken place I believe it is real, I believe President Mnangagwa is sincere in the things he wants to do. It is going to be extremely challenging and everybody who knows economics knows that it’s going to be tough going,” he said.
Resonating with President Mnangagwa’s mantra that it is time to set aside politics and focus on the economy, Masiyiwa said, “We got to stop on the politicking and focus on rebuilding this country and am right up there.”
Meanwhile, people from all walks of life have endorsed the call by Masiyiwa for sanctions to be removed.
Hopewel Chin’ono said, “I agree with Masiyiwa that sanctions are a handicap to the rebuilding of the Zimbabwean economy.”
Trevor Ncube and Shingi Munyeza, amongst a host others recommended the removal of sanctions for Zimbabwe to completely revive its economy.
“I’m absolutely delighted to hear Masiyiwa say this truth to the world. Zimbabwe deserves a chance to succeed but we can’t do this with sanctions standing in the way. As I said before, President ED Mnangagwa is determined to leave a positive legacy. He needs our support,” said Trevor Ncube.
Strive Masiyiwa further encouraged investors both local and foreign to seriously consider investing in Zimbabwe as there are lucrative prospects and Zimbabwe is fertile ground for investment opportunities.
“I have invested in Zimbabwe in the last 10years 1.5 billion dollars, I’m as committed to investing in Zimbabwe as I have always been, come rain or shine, but I think that Zimbabwe needs to be given a chance,” concluded Masiyiwa.
