President Mnangagwa Takes COMESA Chairmanship

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has taken over the chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), pledging to promote trade, industrialisation and investment across the region.

Speaking at the 25th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit at the New Parliament Building in Mount Hampden, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe would work with member states to strengthen regional economic cooperation.

The summit is running under the theme, “One Market, One Future: Advancing Inclusive Industrialisation, Investment and Regional Integration in COMESA.”

“I accept the chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) with deep humility,” Cde Mnangagwa said.

He thanked outgoing chairperson, Kenyan President William Ruto, for his leadership and efforts to promote digitalisation and regional value chains.

President Mnangagwa also congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his appointment as COMESA vice-chairperson.

“Together, Zimbabwe and Zambia stand ready to lead our regional bloc toward unprecedented economic growth,” he said.

The President called for increased trade, improved transport infrastructure and better access to funding for young people, women and small and medium-sized enterprises.

“COMESA remains a vital platform to promote trade, and the ultimate success of this conference rests upon our collective shoulders,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe would promote value addition, beneficiation, agro-processing and climate-resilient agriculture to boost economic growth and food security.

“During our tenure, we aim to work closely with all member states to fast-track value addition and beneficiation,” he said.

He also called for education and skills training that meet industry needs.

“We must align our skills training and education systems to produce goods and services that directly impact and improve the lives of our people,” he said.

President Mnangagwa reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to regional cooperation, saying the country remained “a friend to all and an enemy to none”.

He urged African countries to unite for a stronger continent.

“With unity of purpose, let us deliver a better, more prosperous future for the people of Africa,” Cde Mnangagwa added.