United Nations rallies behind Zimbabwe’s new administration

HARARE – THE United Nations (UN) is encouraged by steps taken by the new Zimbabwean administration to revive the economy, restore the rule of law and re-engage with the international community.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has made such pledges after taking over from ousted longtime leader, Robert Mugabe, whose administration is accused of wrecking the economy, violating the rights of its citizens and was unpopular internationally.

The UN, commenting for the first time since Mugabe resigned, also welcomed the expressed commitment of the new government towards social cohesion and peace, job creation, fighting corruption and ensuring credible, transparent and peaceful elections in 2018.

Kanako Mabuchi, Head of UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, said they were encouraged by the National Budget Statement for 2018, which laid a foundation for reforms and saw increased allocations to social services and productive sectors.

“Building on the longstanding engagement in the country anchored on a relationship of trust and mutual respect with all stakeholders, the UN System in Zimbabwe renews its collective commitment to support the Government and people of Zimbabwe to realise their aspirations,” Mabuchi said in Harare.

In that regard, the UN committed to scale-up its joint support to national efforts towards creating a conducive environment for economic recovery, increasing participation of all citizens in democratic processes and strengthening effective and accountable public sector institutions.

UN will enhance its cooperation under the 2016-2020 Zimbabwe UN Development Assistance Framework (ZUNDAF) signed with government in 2015.

– CAJ News