Zimbabwe’s president speaking on sanctions and the country’s stance:

📌 President Mnangagwa’s Position on Sanctions

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has repeatedly addressed sanctions imposed by the United States and other Western countries, calling for their removal and highlighting their negative impact on the country and region. In a speech as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), he commended support from regional partners in calling for the lifting of sanctions that have been in place for decades, describing them as harmful to Zimbabwe’s development and economy.

He has emphasized that sanctions undermine economic growth and hinder foreign investment — an argument Zimbabwean officials and some regional allies have used to advocate for lifting these punitive measures.

🧠 Background: What Sanctions Involve

Although many broad sanctions were lifted in 2024, targeted measures remain against individuals, including President Mnangagwa, his wife, and other senior officials, due to alleged corruption and human rights abuses. These sanctions limit travel and access to certain financial systems, and are often cited by the Zimbabwean government as a barrier to economic engagement and international credit access.

🗣️ Broader Regional Support

Zimbabwe’s calls for sanctions to be lifted have often been echoed by regional bodies and neighbouring countries, with statements at SADC platforms emphasizing that unilateral sanctions negatively affect not only Zimbabwe but regional integration and economic stability.

In summary, President Mnangagwa’s official stance is that sanctions are unjust, harmful, and should be removed, a position he regularly raises in regional and international forums. This reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts by Zimbabwe and its allies to reduce economic pressure and improve international relations.