Story by Silence Mugadzaweta, Online Editor
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa says the National Action Plan for Children is set to drive Zimbabwe’s inclusive development by expanding access to basic social services, such as education and healthcare, while addressing violence against children.
Speaking at the 46th Independence Day celebrations held in Maphisa, President Mnangagwa outlined the Government’s broader development agenda spanning social services, infrastructure, and economic growth.
“The National Action Plan for Children will improve access to inclusive basic social services, such as education and health, as well as ending violence against children,” he said.
The President said the government is strengthening the health sector by building modern, well-equipped facilities and recruiting and training skilled personnel.
“Turning to the health sector, my administration is committed to the establishment of modern and well-stocked health facilities throughout the country,” he said.
In Matobo District, refurbishment of Maphisa District Hospital and Kezi Rural Hospital, as well as the procurement of diagnostic equipment, are expected to improve access to quality healthcare services.
He added that the re-opening of the Primary Care Nurse Training School at Maphisa District Hospital is being expedited to bolster the health workforce.
On economic development, President Mnangagwa said the mining sector continues to record strong growth and is projected to reach 6.3 percent in 2026, driven by policies aimed at unlocking value from the country’s mineral resources.
“Measures, which include the controlled export of raw minerals, will now see increased local value addition and beneficiation,” he said.
He noted that investment in lithium beneficiation is gathering pace, with Prospect Zimbabwe Limited set to commission a lithium sulphate plant in Mashonaland East, while operations in Gwanda, Bikita, and Kamativi are also establishing processing facilities.
Infrastructure development remains a key priority, with major road projects and rehabilitation programmes underway to support economic activity and regional integration.
“Roads are an economy. As such, road construction, routine rehabilitation, and maintenance have been rolled out,” the President said.
He highlighted ongoing projects, including the Beitbridge-Masvingo-Harare Highway, the upgrading of the Beitbridge-Bulawayo and Bulawayo-Victoria Falls roads, and the construction of the Harare-Chirundu Highway, alongside improvements to border posts, such as the installation of e-gates at Beitbridge Border Post to enhance efficiency.
The President said that additional investment is being directed towards rural electrification, water infrastructure, and sanitation programmes to improve livelihoods.
Tourism, he added, continues to grow, with the sector recording a 10 percent increase in 2025, generating US$1.3 billion in receipts and attracting significant investment.
On youth development, President Mnangagwa said the Government is scaling up technical and vocational training, while facilitating the absorption of National Youth Service graduates into the public sector.
He also called for collective action to combat drug and substance abuse, urging communities to support rehabilitation and awareness initiatives.
“The fight against drug and substance abuse needs the participation of all of us,” he said.
The President commended small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly those led by women and young people, for their contributions to employment and economic growth.
He further highlighted progress in housing delivery, with over 800 000 units developed under the National Development Strategy, alongside ongoing programmes to regularise settlements and issue title deeds.
President Mnangagwa said the Government remains committed to inclusive development, decentralisation, and improving living standards as Zimbabwe advances towards Vision 2030.
