By Simbarashe Sithole
Citizen Against Economic Sanctions, (CAES), has welcomed the appointment of businessman, Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei, as a Cabinet minister, describing the move as a demonstration of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s confidence in Zimbabweans committed to national development despite Western sanctions.
CAES chairman, Ellison Muchenje, popularly known as Commander Samuriwo, thanked Mnangagwa for appointing Tagwirei, saying his inclusion in government was important as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to achieve Vision 2030.
Muchenje said Tagwirei’s continued presence in Zimbabwe and his involvement in the country’s economic activities demonstrated his commitment to national development despite sanctions imposed on him.
He argued that sanctions should not prevent Zimbabweans from contributing to their country’s economic growth and transformation.
“We want to thank President Mnangagwa for appointing Dr Tagwirei as a minister at this critical stage when the country is working towards achieving Vision 2030.” Muchenje said.
“Despite being under sanctions, Dr Tagwirei remained in Zimbabwe and continued contributing to the building of his country’s economy. This demonstrates his commitment to Zimbabwe and its development.”
Muchenje said CAES remained opposed to sanctions, which the organisation believes undermine economic development and discourage investment.
He said Zimbabwe needed the collective efforts of businesspeople, government and other stakeholders to strengthen domestic industries, create employment and improve the livelihoods of citizens.
The CAES chairman added that achieving Vision 2030 required capable leadership, investment and cooperation between the public and private sectors.
He said Tagwirei’s appointment should encourage Zimbabweans to remain focused on national development despite external economic pressures.
CAES has been campaigning against economic sanctions, arguing that Zimbabwe’s development aspirations should not be hindered by restrictive measures imposed on individuals and entities.
Vision 2030 is the government’s ambition to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by the end of the decade, with economic growth, investment and improved living standards among its key objectives.