The Sunday Mail
THE official residence of Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa Mr David Hamadziripi was a hive of activity as scores of diplomats, South African government officials, captains of industry and the media gathered for a grand reception marking 44 years of independence from British colonial rule.
At the prestigious ceremony on Thursday, Amb Hamadziripi and his wife Dr Jessica Hamadziripi welcomed the winding procession of guests streaming into the Pretoria residence.
The couple was assisted by Zimbabwe’s Consul-General in Johannesburg Mr Eria Phiri and other senior Zimbabwean diplomats in welcoming the guests.
The South African government was represented by Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises Mr Obed Bapela, who was the guest of honour.
In his address, Amb Hamadziripi said the presence of the South African delegation led by Mr Bapela is testimony to the strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood between the two countries and the people.
“We are celebrating this day under the theme ‘Zim@44: Unity, Peace and Development Towards Vision 2030’.
“In commemorating this important day in the history of our country, we draw inspiration from the spirit, determination and sacrifice that brought about our independence, sovereignty, freedom and peace,” said Amb Hamadziripi.
“I am pleased that, just last month, on the 14th to be precise, our two governments signed a memorandum of understanding for the supply of treated water from Beitbridge in Zimbabwe to Musina in South Africa. We look forward to more agreements of cooperation between us in the near future, in this vital sector and, of course, in other sectors.
“Honourable Deputy Minister, I wish to express our deep appreciation to the government of South Africa for your consistent and invaluable support in calling for the unconditional removal of the illegal sanctions imposed on our country by some Western countries.
“These sanctions violate our human rights and indeed the rights of many others in this region.”
He urged fellow Zimbabweans to be exemplary while sojourning in the neighbouring country.
“I cannot conclude my remarks without a specific message for my fellow Zimbabweans here in South Africa,” he said.
“I invite you to remember our President’s (Emmerson Mnangagwa) call that ‘nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo’ (a nation is built by its own citizens),” he added.
“I also urge you, as you enjoy the hospitality of our brothers and sisters here, to be among the best of the guests this country is hosting.”
As South Africa gears up for celebrations marking 30 years of freedom and democracy at the end of this month, Amb Hamadziripi also congratulated the South African government and its people for the milestone.
Regarding the upcoming elections, set for May, he extended well wishes for peaceful polls.
“The people of Zimbabwe wish you memorable celebrations, as well as successful and peaceful elections next month, as you continue to broaden and deepen your system of democracy,” he said.
Addressing the event, Mr Bapela said the Southern African Development Community has been making major strides in consolidating democracy.
“In 2023, several countries held general elections, including the Republic of Zimbabwe, the Kingdom of eSwatini and the Democratic Republic of Congo. I wish to reiterate our congratulations to His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ZANU PF party for winning a majority in both houses of Parliament,” said Mr Bapela.
He said the relations between Zimbabwe and South Africa are historic and friendly, dating back to the days of the struggle against colonialism and apartheid.
Relations between the neighbouring nations are conducted through a Bi-National Commission (BNC), which was established in 2015.
“We look forward to the convening of the fourth session of the BNC to continue cooperation in areas such as defence, energy, investments, tourism, health, as well as economic and trade cooperation,” he said.
“South Africa and Zimbabwe are committed to further strengthen the economic relations between the two countries.” — IOL
