Mnangagwa hails Mugabe’s enduring legacy on seventh death anniversary
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to the late former President Robert Mugabe, describing Zimbabwe’s founding leader as a revolutionary whose legacy continues to shape the country.
In a commemorative message marking seven years since Mugabe’s death, Mnangagwa praised him as a veteran nationalist and Pan-Africanist who remained steadfast throughout the liberation struggle and championed the political and economic emancipation of Zimbabwe and the wider African continent.
Mugabe endured 11 years in colonial detention before emerging as a key leader of the liberation struggle, which culminated in Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980.
Mnangagwa highlighted the Land Reform Programme, indigenisation and economic empowerment among Mugabe’s major legacies, while also crediting him with expanding access to education and healthcare for previously marginalised communities.
He said Mugabe’s Pan-African outlook extended beyond Zimbabwe, with the former leader supporting liberation movements across Southern Africa and campaigning against colonialism and apartheid.
“As a people and a Nation, we continue to pay tribute to him, and to cherish the rich and priceless legacy he bequeathed to our Nation,” Mnangagwa said.
Mugabe died in Singapore on September 6, 2019, aged 95, after serving as Zimbabwe’s leader from independence in 1980 until his resignation in November 2017.
Mnangagwa concluded his message by calling for the preservation of Zimbabwe’s independence, unity, peace and freedom.