By Margaret Kamba
This week, the EU extended its embargo on Zimbabwe. Despite the calls by many countries to have the illegal sanctions removed, the West continues to extend them.
The illegal sanctions were imposed when Zimbabwe embarked on the Land Reform Programme, which benefitted many landless black majority who had been deprived of their right to their natural resources.
Once imposed, the sanctions witnessed a downturn of the economy with a closure of many industries subsequent loss of jobs and incomes.
Among the industries affected were the tourism industry, which witnessed a decline in tourist arrivals from double-digit percentage and a deliberate media onslaught as Zimbabwe was declared an unsafe tourist destination.
Many attempts to rebuild the industry witnessed a rebranding exercise that saw Zimbabwe being called 'A World of Wonders' from the previous 'Africa's Paradise'.
Many efforts to have the sanctions removed have seen the formation of organizations such as the Broad Alliance Against Sanctions camping outside the United States Embassy in order to pile pressure on the American government. The American Embassy has also attempted fruitlessly to have the BAAS vacate the place.
During the late Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli as the Southern African Development Community SADC Chairman, he took a stance to declare every 25th of October as a day when the whole region calls for the removal of the illegal sanctions as he said they were not only affecting Zimbabwe but other countries.
From then on, SADC member countries have used every forum even the United Nations General Assembly UNGA to call for the unconditional lifting of the sanctions.
While the claim had been that the illegal sanctions were targeted on those on the list, the reality on the ground has been that it is the ordinary people of Zimbabwe who have felt the brunt as their lives have been altered and they have had to become more resilient. For many, putting food on the table has been difficult, with many resorting to one meal a day to make ends meet.
Fortunately Zimbabwe's leadership has found alternatives to building its country through local resources. The land which the black people acquired is changing lives as young people, women and men are earning immensely from what they produce.
In an interview, ZANU PF Director for Information and Publicity Department Cde Farai Marapira said the extension comes with no surprises.
"As ZANU PF, we are disappointed but not surprised to learn about the EU's decision to extend the arms embargo on Zimbabwe. This decision further undermines our efforts to build a prosperous nation. We remain committed to peace, stability, and good governance. The EU must recognize our comprehensive reforms and engage constructively thereby. These reforms implemented under the able leadership of His Excellency, President Dr ED Mnangagwa are undeniably palpable," Cde Marapira said.
"Zimbabwe's security forces have championed professionalism and adherence to human rights. It's time to restore trust, foster dialogue, and lift these outdated restrictions. The President has clearly stated that Zimbabwe stands ready to work with the EU and demonstrate our commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Zimbabwe. As per our President's words, our doors remain open, and we await sanity to prevail in the West. Furthermore, realists there need to teach their compatriots that the true issue at stake, the Zimbabwe land question is irreversible."