Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed profound gratitude to the kingdom for standing with his country during years of political isolation and punitive sanctions.
Mnangagwa was delivering the keynote address at the Eswatini International Trade Fair, held in Manzini, where His Majesty King Mswati III graced the event alongside distinguished guests including former South African president Jacob Zuma, former Botswana president Ian Khama and chiefs from across the African continent. The event coincided with the country’s 57th Independence Day celebrations.
In his remarks, Mnangagwa recalled the solidarity Eswatini extended to Zimbabwe when the southern African nation faced international backlash and economic sanctions after reclaiming land from colonial occupiers.
“We vividly recall Eswatini’s unwavering support during seasons when we faced political and economic backlash, isolation and the imposition of illegal sanctions. Your consistent solidarity will forever remain etched in the history of our country,” he stated.
Trade and investment opportunities
The Zimbabwean president said such solidarity must now evolve into deeper trade partnerships, calling on governments of both countries to prioritise joint ventures in agriculture, sugarcane production, tourism, mining, infrastructure and renewable energy.
“The two nations should strengthen their trade relations and embrace new opportunities in technology, agriculture, tourism and energy,” he said.
He emphasised that the resilience of African women, the energy of young people, and the spirit of African communities could be harnessed to achieve self-sufficiency and sovereignty across the continent.
Direct air link boosts ties
On that account, he hailed the introduction of a direct air link between Harare and Eswatini by Eswatini Air as a significant stride in boosting regional tourism, business exchanges and people-to-people linkages.
“This direct connection demonstrates the kingdom’s commitment to regional tourism development and air connectivity. It facilitates greater trade, business exchanges and strengthens our mutual aspirations for a united and prosperous future,” Mnangagwa stated.
Embracing technology and innovation
The president highlighted the opportunities presented by technological advances, artificial intelligence, and green innovation, which he said must form the cornerstone of Africa’s development.
He emphasised that no community should be left behind as the world undergoes a technological revolution reshaping economies and industries.
“Digital transformation must be inclusive. Zimbabwe has adopted a heritage-based education 5.0 model which promotes innovation, science and technology-driven development,” he said.
“Our innovation hubs and industrial parks are creating a new breed of entrepreneurs and new industries. These innovations are already transforming agriculture, health, mining and energy, while also empowering SMEs,” he added.
On that account, the Zimbabwean head of state encouraged Eswatini to join Zimbabwe in exploring joint ventures in these sectors, underscoring the importance of Trade Fairs as platforms for regional unity, innovation and business networking.
Strengthening African integration
“Trade Fairs are a call to action as they challenge us to embrace innovation, connectivity, science and technology as foundations for prosperity and readiness for the future,” he said.
He warned that Africa must position itself to compete in a global environment increasingly shaped by technology, climate change and complex geopolitical shifts.
“By believing in ourselves, valuing our own products, and investing in our own industries as Africans, we build stronger, sustainable and more resilient economies. Ourselves, nobody else,” he emphasised, affirming the deep-rooted cultural, social and historical ties between Eswatini and Zimbabwe.
Celebrating Eswatini’s resilience
Mnangagwa congratulated the kingdom on its 57th Independence Day, highlighting that the nation has demonstrated resilience and vision in building institutions, preserving cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for its people.
He commended His Majesty’s leadership in using the trade fair as a platform not only to showcase the country’s economic opportunities but also to promote African solidarity and continental cooperation.
“The Eswatini International Trade Fair will go back home to Zimbabwe with lasting impressions of this visit. We look forward to more exchanges and deeper appreciation of your economy as we pursue interregional and continental trade under SADC and AfCFTA,” Mnangagwa said.
