President Mnangagwa urges the nation to build prosperous, united Zimbabwe at 45th Heroes Day
Harare – 11 August 2025
In a passionate address delivered at the National Heroes Acre during the 45th National Heroes Day commemorations, His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa paid glowing tribute to Zimbabwe’s fallen and living liberation heroes, urging the nation to preserve and safeguard national sovereignty, accelerate economic growth, and uphold the values for which the country’s freedom fighters sacrificed their lives.
Cde Mnangagwa characterized the commemorations as a sacred moment to honour the “gallant sons and daughters of the soil” whose dedication, courage, patriotism, and selflessness secured the independence and freedoms Zimbabwe enjoys today. He emphasised that their legacy should motivate and inspire present and future generations to realise the country’s Vision 2030 and beyond.
Highlighting strides in national development under the Second Republic, the President noted that Zimbabwe’s economy has grown from US$16 billion in 2018 to US$45.7 billion in 2025, with a projected 6% growth rate for the year. He attributed this progress to multi-pronged and comprehensive reforms, resilience in the face of illegal sanctions, and a stable macroeconomic environment.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of economic transformation, with record outputs in maize, wheat, tobacco, and traditional grains, alongside a rebound in livestock and dairy production. The President hailed the sector’s success as a fulfilment and significan realization of the liberation struggle’s central aim – land to the people, and called on farmers to continue safeguarding this legacy .
Industrialisation and value addition are also gaining momentum , with the manufacturing sector contributing 15% to GDP. The mining sector, contributing over 13% to GDP, is being guided towards responsible practices, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment.
Infrastructure development featured prominently in the address, with the President detailing major progress on national highways, including the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge corridor, and the launch of projects such as the Mabvuku-Tafara Interchange and the Christmas Pass bypass. Investments in renewable energy, especially solar power, and the modernisation of airports and ports of entry, are reinforcing Zimbabwe’s commitment toward self-reliance.
President Mnangagwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to devolution, rural development, and social services, including expanded healthcare, education reform, ICT access, and housing. He lauded the contributions of the diaspora, youth, and women in nation-building and underscored the importance of climate resilience and sustainable development.
On the diplomatic front, the President reiterated Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and equality on the world stage, announced the country’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, and celebrated the conclusion of Zimbabwe’s successful SADC chairmanship.
In closing, President Mnangagwa called on citizens from all walks of life to unite in building “a modern and industrialised Zimbabwe,” urging them to aim beyond Vision 2030. “Forward ever, backward never. Success and prosperity are certain,” he declared, dedicating the day to the enduring spirit of the liberation struggle and the heroes who made it possible.
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