Story by Yolanda Moyo
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged citizens to embrace patriotism and actively contribute to the country’s development.
Speaking during the 8th annual National Thanksgiving and Dedication Service in Bulawayo convened by the Faith for the Nation Campaign (FANA), in association with the Zimbabwe Indigenous Interdenominational Council of Churches (ZIICC), this Sunday, President Mnangagwa rallied Zimbabweans to remain patriotic.
“In pursuit of our National Vision 2030, I call upon us to embrace true patriotism and genuine love for our country and our people. Borrowing from the exhortations in Psalm Chapter 137 verses 5 and 6, I also urge us, individually and collectively, to patriotically proclaim that, ‘If I forget Zimbabwe, let my right hand forget her skill. If I do not remember nor prefer Zimbabwe above my own joy, let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth’. Never be blind to the vast potential of our land. Open your eyes and hearts to truly love and be committed to the land of your birth. You, the youth, are the future of this great country,” said the President.
The President underscored the importance of love, peace, unity and harmony as the cornerstone of a thriving nation.
“Love is indeed the common denominator in the way we relate with Almighty God and with another. Love should remain ingrained within the church and among the people of our nation. Love, peace, unity and harmony are the greatest gifts that we lost bequeath to the future generations. Additionally, it is critically important that our trust and confidence remains anchored in the mighty power and faithfulness of Jehovah God. He shall fulfil his promises and plans over our families, communities, provinces and then nation as a whole,” he said.
Embracing technology is also key in Zimbabwe’s industrialisation agenda.
“As we dedicate our nation and concentrate ourselves to the work that lies ahead, let us embrace and advance initiatives and innovations that propose our development, modernisation and industrialisation agenda. Individually and collectively, we must hold firm each other’s hands as we develop our country. We are committed to forge ahead in unity and in one accord as one people and one great nation.
“May God bless our efforts for more historic milestones toward the realisation of Vision 2030 and beyond. Development initiatives and programs for the upliftment and prosperity of our people have become the solid foundation upon which we are building our country brick by brick and stone upon stone. Us the people of Zimbabwe, are our own liberators and using our own indigenous resources, skills and talents. Others are welcome to assist us,” noted the President.
In the year ahead, President Mnangagwa says his government’s focus will be on hard and honest work as well as production and productivity which should propel Zimbabwe to a brighter future.
