The ZANU (PF) Conference taking place at Goromonzi High School in Mashonaland East is meant to share perspectives on quickening the pace towards greater economic stability and growth, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said.
“This Conference must therefore share perspectives with regards how we can quicken the pace of re-building and modernising both our Party and the country towards greater economic stability and growth. As we journey on the path towards economic prosperity and growth, the Party must be in the forefront of encouraging maximum productivity across all sectors, always inculcating a culture of unity, love and harmony among all our people. We are proceeding with this agenda, there is no turning back,” President Mnangagwa told the delegates while officially opening the conference.
He emphasised on the need for the 18th ZANU (PF) National People’s Conference to show greater commitment and urgency to deliver economic empowerment for the people especially the youth and women as well as jobs, modern infrastructure, health, education, housing and other social amenities.
He exhorted the delegates to be more attentive and responsive in the manner they address issues that affect citizens.
“We are a Party from the people and for the people. They are the reason why we are here. In 2018, we convened in Esigodini, Matabeleland South Province, on the backdrop of a resounding victory scored by our revolutionary Party during the Harmonised General Elections. We met then, emboldened by the fresh mandate given to us by the majority of the people of Zimbabwe and resolved to accelerate the implementation of policies and programmes which improve every sector of the economy and the quality of life of our people,” President Mnangagwa said.
In spite of the various shocks which negatively impacted Zimbabwe’s projected economic growth, such asCyclone Idai and the drought; President Mnangagwa said notable strides had been made.
“These include the reduction of the budget deficit and introduction of key macro-fiscal reforms aimed at stabilising and resuscitating the economy, in line with the Transitional Stabilisation Programme. Our 2020 National Budget is thus aimed at stimulating higher productivity, growth and job creation. No progressive nation can develop without its own currency. The introduction of our own currency will undoubtedly enhance our economic stability, growth and competitiveness,” he said.
He added that measures have been put in place to ensure adequate cash supply to the populace. The President assured the nation that law enforcement agents will move in to deal with those who are hoarding cash and causing artificial shortages of cash.
“The illegal trading in foreign currency must be stopped in line with our laws. It is incumbent upon all citizens of our great country and Party members in particular, to protect and defend our currency as a symbol of national sovereignty and pride. We remain concerned at the prevailing high prices charged by some of our retailers for basic commodities. As government we will continue to put social safety nets to cushion the vulnerable members of our society such as subsidised mealie meal, ZUPCO buses for transport and the removal of duty on selected food commodities. Retailers should not sell subsidised basic commodities in bulk to ensure equitable access to the products by vulnerable communities.”