Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to use cultural diversity as a tool for national unity and development, warning against efforts to weaponise differences for division.
The President made the remarks during the main Culture Month celebrations held at Barbourfields Stadium on Thursday, where thousands gathered to celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
Zimbabwe commemorates Culture Month every May through activities aimed at promoting and preserving the country’s traditions, languages and heritage. The country recognises 16 official languages and a wide range of cultural practices.
Addressing the gathering, President Mnangagwa said arts and culture remain critical pillars in promoting social cohesion, peace and national identity.
“The importance of fostering social cohesion and national unity through arts and culture cannot be over-emphasised. In a world where diversity is often weaponised, we must choose the progressive path of unity, peace-building and peace-making,” he said.
The President said Zimbabwe’s cultural values are rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu-Hunhu, which promotes collective identity and shared humanity.
“This has its roots in our long-standing African philosophy and communal tradition of Ubuntu-Hunhu, embedded in the adage, ‘umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’; ‘I am because we are’,” he added.
President Mnangagwa said Government remains committed to preserving the country’s heritage while integrating culture into the broader national development agenda.
“Under the Second Republic, my Government recognises that culture is inseparable from the ongoing socio-economic development, modernisation and industrialisation agenda,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing investments in cultural infrastructure, citing the recently commissioned Isizinda Culture Centre as one example of efforts to preserve heritage while improving community livelihoods.
The President also encouraged greater investment in cultural tourism and creative industries, describing the sector as a growing economic opportunity.
“Culture is good for business. Cultural tourism, creative industries, events and cultural exports remain priority growth areas that are beckoning for investment,” he said.
He urged the corporate sector to partner Government in developing the cultural and creative economy through infrastructure development, skills training and employment creation for young people.
At the same time, President Mnangagwa challenged artists and creative practitioners to produce authentic Zimbabwean content capable of competing on regional and international platforms.
The President also called on the media to continue promoting Zimbabwean culture and heritage beyond the commemorations of Culture Month.
