by Rudo Saungweme

Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province, Oliver Chidawu has said that the sanctions which the US and its allies claim are targeted, had not only negatively impacted on Zimbabwe but the SADC region as a whole.

Minister Chidau said this while addressing journalists in Harare today.

"The sanctions which the USA and its allies claim are targeted have not only brought untold suffering to the masses in Zimbabwe but also negatively impacted the SADC region as a whole.

"They have also prevented the creation of mutually beneficial investment relations with the countries that have imposed sanctions on us," said the minister.

Minister Chidawu indicated that upon his inauguration, President Emmerson Mnangagwa "announced a raft of policy measures that are meant to revive our economy including, but not limited to the re-engagement policy.”

He added: "The President's policy intervention was predicted upon the full and sincere cooperation by all the United Nations Member States."

Minister Chidawu highlighted that it is saddening to note that despite Government's spirited overtures led by President Mnangagwa, the USA and its Western allies remain adamant in their decision to have sanctions remain in place.

However, the minister expressed satisfaction over the commitment by the SADC region to join hands with the Zimbabweans in calling for the unconditional lifting of the illegal sanctions which have had debilitating effects on Zimbabwe and negative knock on effects on the entire SADC region.

The minister implored all Zimbabweans to come out in their numbers in support of the call for the lifting of these unjustified economic sanctions adding that numbers will be available at usual pick up points from 6 a.m.

In Harare, the march will commence at the Robert Mugabe Square to the National Sports Stadium where solidarity messages will be delivered.