Grace Chekai

The Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ambassador James Manzou has highlighted that the Zimbabweans in the Diaspora can champion development for their hometowns.

Speaking at the occasion of the launch of the Zim-Thrive Trust today in Harare, Ambassador Manzou said, “The President, His Excellency, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa has enunciated the mantra, “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene vayo.” This includes Zimbabweans at home and members of the diaspora community. It is our firm belief that the Zimbabwean Diaspora can champion development for their hometowns as well as for the country at large. And so to us, all initiatives targeted at building up our motherland are well commendable, be it development, philanthropic works, knowledge and skills transfer or remittance mobilization for production.”

Ambassador Manzou reiterated that Government was encouraging the formation and registration of Diaspora Associations through Zimbabwean Embassies in the Diasporas Countries of Destination (CoD) as there is strength in numbers.

He added to say that his ministry was more than ready to work with all development-oriented and proudly Zimbabwean citizens who are willing to stand for their country.

Ambassador Manzou said that Cabinet approved a Whole-of-Government (WoG) approach to diaspora issues.

“You may wish to note, distinguished delegates, that recently Cabinet approved a Whole-of Government (WoG) approach to diaspora issues through the setting up of a high level Cabinet Committee on Diaspora Engagement to handle diaspora issues.     

“The same is mandated to look into a cocktail of strategies to promote and protect the welfare and interests of the diaspora, while also availing them space and opportunities to take part in the socio-economic development of the country,” said Ambassador Manzou.

Ambassador Manzou reiterated that Government was committed to creating a diaspora-friendly environment for Diasporas as to find their space and thrive in their country of origin.

He encouraged the Zim-Thrive members to work together with other Zimbabweans in the Diaspora.

“I wish to call upon Zim-Thrive to collaborate with other Zimbabwe Diaspora Associations across the globe in raising the country`s flag high.”

Zim-Thrive is an initiative to bring thousands of Zimbabweans from all over the world to Zimbabwe at the same time in 2022 to foster friendship, unity, patriotism, family, healing, economic injection and most importantly just being Zimbabwean. This is in line with President`s Mnangagwa`s mantra, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”