Staff Reporter

President Mnangagwa will not be attending this year’s United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York due to a packed domestic schedule.

In a statement released today by the Office of the President and Cabinet, it was confirmed that President Mnangagwa's absence is due to "a dense programme in the last quarter of 2024."

The statement noted that while the President will not be present, Zimbabwe’s interests will be represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Frederick Shava.

 Minister Shava, who is already in New York for the assembly, will deliver Zimbabwe's statement at the high-level gathering, ensuring the country's continued engagement in global discussions.

“In light of a dense programme in the last quarter of 2024, His Excellency the President, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, will not attend this year's United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA. His statement will be delivered by Hon. F.M. Shava, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade who is already in New York for the Assembly,” reads the statement.

Political commentator Dr. Tafadzwa Moyo emphasized that this move signals the President’s commitment to addressing internal challenges.

 “By prioritizing the domestic front, President Mnangagwa is showing that Zimbabwe’s national interests are best served by consolidating progress at home. While the UNGA is an important platform, the nation’s ongoing reforms require his full attention,” said Moyo.

Dr Moyo said that this decision aligns with a broader trend among global leaders who have occasionally forgone international appearances in favour of attending to national issues.

“For instance, in 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the UNGA, citing domestic concerns and the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has skipped the assembly in the past, delegating the task to senior ministers while focusing on pressing national matters. These examples illustrate how world leaders must sometimes balance their international obligations with the necessity of steering domestic agendas,” said Dr Moyo.

Professor Mandla Ndlovu, an international relations expert, noted the significance of Shava’s participation.

“Honourable Shava’s extensive experience in diplomacy positions him well to represent Zimbabwe effectively. While it is always preferable for the Head of State to attend, having the Foreign Minister deliver the country’s address ensures continuity in Zimbabwe’s international engagement,” Ndlovu said.

He added that this move allows Zimbabwe to maintain its strategic partnerships and align itself with global development goals despite the President’s absence.

Ndlovu added that President Mnangagwa’s decision to forgo the UNGA this year also reflects the increasing complexity of modern leadership, where domestic challenges, particularly economic and social reforms, demand a leader's constant attention.

Meanwhile, balancing internal development with global diplomatic engagement remains a key challenge for many leaders.

President Mnangagwa’s absence from the UNGA, though notable, is seen as a pragmatic choice in ensuring the success of critical national initiatives.