President Mnangagwa Hails Raradza’s Contribution to National Development

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has hailed the late Bishop and National Hero Cde Edward Raradza for his contribution to Zimbabwe’s agricultural, mining and economic development.

Raradza was a prominent entrepreneur and public servant who supported efforts to mechanise the land reform programme by mobilising funding for agricultural machinery and equipment.

He also supported the government’s Look East Policy as Zimbabwe faced sanctions under the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act from 2002.

As founder of Zambezi Gas Zimbabwe Pvt Ltd and one of the country’s first black owners of a coal mine, Raradza created thousands of jobs, contributed to electricity generation and exported coal to the region and China, generating foreign currency.

Raradza also served on the boards of the Agricultural Finance Corporation, Dorowa Minerals and the Grain Marketing Board, combining his business experience with public service.

Mnangagwa said Raradza’s life demonstrated the importance of cooperation between the Church and State in advancing national development.

“The life of the late Bishop and National Hero, Cde Edward Raradza illustrates the unbreakable synergy that must exist between the Church and State,” Mnangagwa said.

The President said the Church would have an important role to play as Zimbabwe implements the National Development Strategy 2, particularly through its moral influence and contribution to national programmes.

“As we implement National Development Strategy 2, participation of the Church as both a moral force and dependable partner is critical,” he said.

Mnangagwa said economic development programmes needed to be supported by strong moral values to create a disciplined and patriotic citizenry.

“Economic frameworks towards building a nation must be complemented by a solid foundation of Godly patriotism, integrity, discipline, honesty, and love for one’s country,” Mnangagwa said.

Raradza’s legacy spans business, mining, agriculture, public service and religious leadership, with his efforts to support land reform mechanisation and indigenous participation in the mining sector forming part of his contribution to Zimbabwe’s development.

His involvement in coal production also supported employment creation, electricity generation and regional exports, while his service on key agricultural and mining institutions extended his contribution beyond the private sector.