ZIMBABWE READY TO HOST HISTORIC SADC SUMMIT

by Priviledge Zviregei

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has once again demonstrated his commitment to fulfilling his promises, as Zimbabwe races to complete a host of multi-million dollar infrastructure projects ahead of next month’s 44th SADC Summit.

The summit, which Zimbabwe will host on August 17-18, will be a crowning moment for President Mnangagwa as the chairperson of the regional body. With the requisite infrastructure either complete or nearing completion, the government has assured that all works are 90% done.

A VIP lounge at the Robert Mugabe International Airport, the road leading to the New Parliament Building, as well as accommodation and other facilities, have all been upgraded to international standards. During a recent tour of the facilities, President Mnangagwa expressed his confidence in Zimbabwe’s readiness to host a truly memorable summit.

“I have no doubt that we will accomplish the task. Yes, I am very happy that my vision is actualizing slowly… I am so happy,” the President said. “This is why we are working 24 hours a day to make sure we host SADC, here, in an environment never seen before and I believe that.”

Beyond the summit, the President assured that the ongoing modernization and transformation of Zimbabwe’s cities and towns will continue, in line with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere provided an update on the progress, noting that the rehabilitation of roads and the State Pavilion at the airport will be completed by July 30.

During the summit, President Mnangagwa is also expected to take fellow Heads of State on a tour of the Geo Pomona Waste Management Operations in Harare, open the SADC Liberation Square at the Museum of African Liberation, and deliver a public lecture at the University of Zimbabwe.

SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi acknowledged the “encouraging progress” made by Zimbabwe, as various technical preparatory sub-committees work around the clock to ensure a successful and memorable summit.