Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
HARARE – PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated the call for African countries to reject neo-colonial economic structures, saying the continent must become master of its own destiny.
He made the remarks during the University of Zambia (UNZA) Law Class of 1975’s 50th Reunion, hosted at State House in Harare this Wednesday.
The President, himself a member of the celebrated law class, delivered a keynote address before former classmates, cabinet ministers, and dignitaries.
He used the occasion to reflect on the continent’s past struggles and the future of African sovereignty.
“While we managed to win political emancipation on the continent, much more must be done to realise sustainable economic independence. Our continent continues to grapple with skewed economic relations. These emanate from the global north, with some countries assuming that they have an inalienable right to keep us in perpetual subjugation.
“This will never be allowed to continue. Africa must confidently assert her standing in the comity of nations. Relations between the North and South should be reset. We reject the horse-and-rider relationship. We are masters of our own destiny,” President Mnangagwa said.
The occasion was marked by warm reunions and nostalgia, as members of the UNZA Law Class of 1975, many of whom last met in lecture halls half a century ago, reflected on their journey.
A visibly elated President Mnangagwa warmly greeted Justice Esau Chulu, a long-time friend and hostel mate from his university days.
The President acknowledged the significant contributions made by his classmates in shaping legal, political and institutional frameworks across the region.
“The post-independence years were characterised by varying epochs, but ultimately, we remained guided by the need to reclaim our land from those who had brutally stolen it from us. We take pride that, as Zimbabwe, we achieved this objective. However, the consequences saw neo-colonial western establishments imposing sanctions on our motherland, Zimbabwe.
“Today, 25 years after the imposition of these heinous sanctions, we are marching on, inspired by our national development philosophy, that “a country is built, ruled and prayed for by its people”. Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonakatigwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe ngabanikazi balo. All our people are determined to build, modernise and industrialise our country, no matter the odds pitted against us,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also announced the establishment of a scholarship fund to support less-privileged but talented students to study in Zimbabwe and Zambia, further cementing bilateral educational ties.
Among those present were fellow alumni Justice Esau Chulu and Mr Bonaventure Mutale, who praised President Mnangagwa for remaining grounded and dedicated to advancing development.
“What a journey we have travelled, and the extent to which we have contributed to national development, some of us have been Judges, politicians, created law firms that have been impactful,” Mr Mutale said.
“We created a bond, a bond of relationship which we celebrate until this day. What a dear friend he is, excellent leader who demonstrated pure leadership. Despite your elevation, you have always looked back to develop communities,” Justice Chulu added.
Following the reunion, the delegation toured the Museum of African Liberation in Warren Park, an initiative that forms part of the government’s broader commitment to preserving the continent’s liberation history.
The UNZA Law Class of 1975 comprised 53 students, many of whom have since passed on.
The reunion served as a poignant reminder of their legacy and collective contributions to post-independence Africa.
