Mnangagwa chairs Zanu-PF's 392nd Politburo session

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday presided over the 392nd session of the Zanu-PF Politburo, which opened with a solemn minute of silence in honour of national heroes who passed on during the reporting period.

The gesture, the President said, was in recognition of their sacrifice and enduring legacy in the liberation and development of Zimbabwe.

In his address, President Mnangagwa warmly welcomed members to the session, which comes in the wake of what he described as successful 46th Independence commemorations held in Maphisa, Matabeleland South.

He commended the ruling party and the Matabeleland South province for demonstrating unity of purpose and mobilising strong attendance, saying this reflected the enduring importance Zimbabweans attach to independence, sovereignty, and national identity.

Turning to economic matters, the President highlighted developments at the 66th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, which was officially opened by Botswana President Duma Boko during his three-day State Visit for the Bi-National Commission.

He said the exhibition underscored the gains of the "Zimbabwe is Open for Business" policy thrust, showcasing national progress, investment opportunities, and industrial capacity.

President Mnangagwa noted that the Zanu-PF exhibition stand at the trade fair attracted significant interest, serving as a platform for mobilisation, recruitment, and engagement with both public and private sector stakeholders.

Reaffirming the party's ideological stance, he said Zanu-PF remains committed to setting the direction of national development and prioritising people-centred policies.

"All policies, programmes and projects must be contextualised to deliver prosperity for all citizens," he said, adding that under the Second Republic, the party will not deviate from its agenda of unity, development, and improving livelihoods.

The President also emphasised the government's focus on value addition and beneficiation, saying Zimbabwe must integrate into global value chains as a producer of finished goods rather than exporting raw materials.

He celebrated the milestone export of the country's first lithium sulphate consignment as evidence of progress in industrial transformation.

On international relations, President Mnangagwa outlined ongoing diplomatic engagements, including a historic State Visit to Ghana-the first in 46 years-as well as outcomes from the Fifth Bi-National Commission with Botswana.

He also cited strengthened solidarity with Eswatini during King Mswati III's 40th anniversary celebrations, and noted the implementation of China's zero-tariff policy for African goods, urging stakeholders to take advantage of expanded trade opportunities.

The President called on Politburo secretaries to adopt a more proactive and coordinated approach in policy formulation, particularly in the sectors of industry and commerce, with a focus on job creation and wealth generation.

He further reminded members to familiarise themselves with the amended Zanu-PF Constitution (2022), especially provisions relating to the duties of party members.

President Mnangagwa expressed appreciation to Politburo members and grassroots structures for their continued dedication, saying their efforts were strengthening party institutions, expanding membership, and popularising government programmes.

He concluded with a call for unity, vigilance, and determination in consolidating the gains of the liberation struggle and advancing the national development agenda, reaffirming that the party line "must never falter in their hands."