Mnangagwa warns over social media abuse

Emmerson Mnangagwa has raised concern over what he described as the growing abuse of social media, warning that the Government will take firm action to protect citizens - particularly children - from harmful online content.

Speaking during the 46th Independence Day celebrations in Matabeleland South Province, the President said the misuse of digital platforms was increasingly undermining societal values.

"I note with grave concern the increasing abuse of social media by some unscrupulous persons and groups," he said, adding that the recording and circulation of road accident footage was "inhumane" and contrary to the principles of Ubuntu.

He stressed that his administration would act "without apology" to safeguard national culture, values and vulnerable groups as Zimbabwe continues to expand its digital footprint.

Mnangagwa said policy frameworks governing information and communication technologies are currently under review to ensure ethical and responsible use of emerging platforms.

At the same time, he highlighted progress in expanding access to broadcasting and information services, noting the installation of a Radio Zimbabwe FM transmitter in Plumtree and expanded coverage across Matabeleland North Province. Community radio initiatives such as Bayethe Community Radio were also cited as part of efforts to improve local information access.

The President linked digital development to broader national transformation efforts, pointing to initiatives such as innovation hubs and the rollout of the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.

He also reaffirmed Government's commitment to supporting liberation war veterans, preserving national heritage - including the repatriation of artefacts like the Zimbabwe soapstone bird, Chapungu - and strengthening public service delivery through performance-based systems.

On governance, Mnangagwa said civil service reforms, including performance contracting and integrated results-based management, are aimed at improving efficiency as Zimbabwe moves closer to its Vision 2030 target of becoming an upper-middle-income economy.

Reiterating Zimbabwe's foreign policy stance of "friend to all and enemy to none," he highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagements, including preparations to host the COMESA Summit and efforts to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2027 - 2028.

Concluding his address, the President urged national unity and collective responsibility.

"No one else will build our country Zimbabwe for us. That duty lies with us all," he said.