Mugabe gave back to Zimbabweans self-belief

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to the late former President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, describing him as a "revered frontline statesman" and a "freedom fighter par excellence" who championed the political and economic emancipation of Zimbabwe, Southern Africa, and the continent.

In a message marking the anniversary of Mugabe's passing on September 6, 2019, President Mnangagwa highlighted the transformative impact of the late leader's indigenisation and economic empowerment programmes. He said these initiatives restored Zimbabweans' self-belief and dignity while strengthening resilience against illegal sanctions.

"The late President's renowned political astuteness and zeal for social, economic, and political empowerment of Zimbabwe's indigenous people impelled him to champion the Land Reform Programme," President Mnangagwa said. "His undying quest to economically empower indigenous farmers and transform the lives of all Zimbabweans saw him implement various programmes that gave back Zimbabweans their self-belief and respect."

President Mnangagwa also lauded Mugabe's role in the liberation and development of the African continent, noting his solidarity with fellow nationalist leaders including Julius Nyerere, Jomo Kenyatta, Kenneth Kaunda, Samora Machel, Agostinho Neto, Sam Nujoma, Joshua Nkomo, and Nelson Mandela.

Describing Mugabe as a "veteran nationalist" and a "luminary leader," the President noted his personal sacrifices during the liberation struggle, including eleven years of incarceration under the colonial settler regime.

"In honour of his exploits and to serve as an enduring legacy, the Second Republic added a National Honours and Awards category in his name in the area of human capital development," President Mnangagwa said.

He reaffirmed the government's commitment to preserving Mugabe's legacy, stating that the Second Republic aims to build a free, democratic, and prosperous society under National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).

"May the soul of the late great freedom fighter, veteran nationalist, frontline statesman, Pan-Africanist, and champion of political and economic liberation of Africa rest in eternal peace," he concluded.