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As Zimbabwe marked its 45th Independence Day on April 18, 2025, the nation stood at a pivotal moment, reflecting on its journey and recommitting to the ambitious goal of achieving an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. The editorial published in The Herald on April 19, 2025, titled “Let’s keep marching towards Vision 2030,” captures the spirit of resilience, unity, and progress that defines Zimbabwe’s path forward. This blog post delves into the editorial’s key messages, celebrating the nation’s achievements and rallying Zimbabweans to stay the course.

A Foundation Built on Resilience

Zimbabwe’s independence, won through a hard-fought liberation struggle, remains a source of immense pride and inspiration. The editorial emphasizes that the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes and heroines continue to fuel Zimbabwe’s determination to overcome challenges, including illegal Western sanctions, climate change-induced disasters, and global economic turbulence. Despite these hurdles, the Second Republic, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has steered the country toward significant milestones, proving that Zimbabwe’s spirit is unbreakable.

The editorial highlights the government’s people-centered policies, which have driven progress across sectors. From record-breaking agricultural yields to advancements in mining and infrastructure, Zimbabwe is leveraging its abundant natural resources and human capital to build a prosperous future. The mantra Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo—Zimbabwe is built by its people—resonates deeply, underscoring the collective effort required to achieve Vision 2030.

Celebrating Milestones, Defying Odds

The editorial points to tangible achievements that showcase Zimbabwe’s resilience. The discovery of lithium deposits has positioned the nation as a key player in the global green energy revolution, while the Pfumvudza/Intwasa climate-smart farming initiative has bolstered food security despite erratic rainfall. Infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and dams, is transforming communities, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind. These successes, achieved in the face of sanctions, demonstrate Zimbabwe’s ability to innovate and thrive through self-reliance.

The Second Republic’s focus on education, particularly in science, technology, and innovation, is another cornerstone of progress. By equipping the youth with skills for the modern economy, Zimbabwe is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. The editorial also praises the nation’s international partnerships with countries like China, Russia, and Belarus, which have supported development projects and opened new avenues for trade and investment.

Unity as the Bedrock of Progress

A central theme of the editorial is the call for unity. Zimbabwe’s strength lies in its diverse yet cohesive society, and the Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe exemplified this spirit. Thousands gathered under rainy skies, joined by music, dance, and a shared sense of patriotism, to reaffirm their commitment to the nation. The editorial urges Zimbabweans to reject divisive elements and focus on collective goals, echoing President Mnangagwa’s call to uphold values like love, discipline, and compassion.

The editorial also acknowledges the role of Zimbabwe’s security forces in safeguarding sovereignty and maintaining peace, a critical factor in creating an environment conducive to development. By fostering stability and good governance, the government has created a platform for citizens to contribute to nation-building.

The Road to Vision 2030

With only five years remaining to achieve Vision 2030, the editorial calls for sustained momentum. The government’s inward-looking economic policies, introduced in 2017, have already yielded results, but the journey is far from over. The editorial encourages all Zimbabweans—farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, students, and leaders—to play their part in driving growth. Whether through adopting climate-smart farming, embracing vocational training, or supporting local industries, every effort counts.

The upcoming 2025 Osaka Expo presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to showcase its potential to the world, attracting investment and strengthening global ties. The editorial emphasizes that by staying disciplined and focused, Zimbabwe can meet its development targets and cement its place as a rising star on the global stage.

A Call to Action

The editorial concludes with a powerful reminder: Zimbabwe’s destiny lies in the hands of its people. The nation’s progress is a collective endeavor, requiring every citizen to contribute to the vision of a prosperous, inclusive, and modern Zimbabwe. As the editorial states, “Let us keep marching forward, together, towards Vision 2030, with the same zeal and determination that won our independence.”

This Independence Day served as a moment to celebrate how far Zimbabwe has come and to renew the commitment to a brighter future. By harnessing unity, resilience, and innovation, Zimbabwe is not just dreaming of Vision 2030—it is actively building it.

As the nation continues to defy odds and achieve milestones, it stands as an inspiration to others, proving that with determination and collective effort, no goal is out of reach. Let us heed the call to keep marching forward, building a Zimbabwe that honors its past and embraces a future of limitless possibilities.

Source: The Herald, “Editorial Comment: Let’s keep marching towards Vision 2030” (April 19, 2025)