21/08/2026
It was an honor to deliver the opening remarks today at the 4th Session of the Zimbabwe-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Pretoria.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to my brother, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, and the people of South Africa for their exceptionally warm welcome and generous hospitality.
Beyond our geographic borders, Zimbabwe and South Africa share deep-rooted historical relations, ancestry, cultural ties, and a common bond forged in our anti-colonial and anti-apartheid struggles. We are one people with linked destinies.
As we deliberate under the vital theme of infrastructure development, agriculture, and critical minerals transformation, our focus remains clear:
•De-risking our economies from external shocks
•Building strong, resilient regional supply chains
•Boosting mutual trade—noting that Zimbabwe imported $3.8 billion worth of goods from SA last year alone
Our partnerships across iron, steel, agriculture, healthcare, and education prove that together we are stronger. When South Africa thrives, Zimbabwe thrives too!
Let us continue to leverage our strategic economic projects to build a more prosperous future and a higher quality of life for all our peoples.