Staff Reporter
The Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) launched a campaign against the economic sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe in Matabeleland South this weekend.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Defence and Security, Levy Mayihlome, emphasized the detrimental impact of these sanctions on the local economy, particularly in the mining and agricultural sectors.
“Today, the CAES program is a response to the cry by Zimbabwe following the economic sanctions imposed on the country. We want to show the countries which imposed sanctions on us that they are not respecting the welfare of the general populace,” Minister Ndlovu stated.
Deputy Minister Mayihlome also highlighted the province’s commitment to advocating for the removal of sanctions, which are seen as a significant barrier to development.
“Mat South is not being spared by the effects of these sanctions. Sanctions are affecting development in the province, particularly in the mining and agricultural sectors. The general populace is suffering; hence they are calling for the removal of these sanctions,” the Minister added.
Similarly, Nikros Kajengo, the CAES Programs Coordinator, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stressing the need for cooperation to enhance agricultural productivity.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, we want to cooperate with the citizens and boost agricultural production. Economic sanctions for long are having devastating effects on the agricultural sector.
Government rolled out the land reform program to ensure all citizens equally benefit from the land, which is the main resource. Our farmers are crippled and suffering because of these sanctions,” Kajengo added
Kajengo also highlighted the resilience of local farmers who have embraced the Pfumvudza program, despite the challenges posed by sanctions.
“Farmers have embraced the President’s Pfumvudza/Intwasa program and are doing well. Our friends from the Asian community have been put on sanctions but are thriving in agriculture. This is a testament to the potential within our own agricultural sector,” he noted.
Kajengo went further to state that the unified call for the removal of sanctions is seen as vital for revitalizing the province’s economic sectors and improving the livelihoods of its residents.
“Mat South is one of the country’s economic anchors, hence the need for an agricultural revolution and to join hands in calling for the removal of sanctions,” concluded Kajengo.
Meanwhile, the CAES has been actively campaigning in eight provinces so far ahead of the national launch of the campaign is scheduled for the 7th of September. These campaigns aim to raise awareness and galvanize support for the removal of economic sanctions that have severely impacted the nation’s development.
