by Ashley Kondo

The Kofi Annan Foundation (KAF) has called on Zimbabwean politicians, business and civil society to join hands towards the vast programme of national renewal and economic development.

This emerged during a speech read on behalf of the Foundation’s Principal and former Secretary General of the United Nations (UN) Assembly, Kofi Annan.

KAF representative, Sabastian Brack, read the speech at Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) on the occasion of the recently held peace pledge signing ceremony organised by the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC).

 “I am excited about the prospects for Zimbabwe, we all know its enormous potential.

“Politicians, business and civil society will have to work together for this vast programme of national renewal,” said Annan.

Since his inauguration, President Mnangagwa, has made numerous pronouncements on the need for peace and unity ahead of the July 30 harmonised elections.

Additionally, the President has emphasised that economics must take precedence over politics as the country endeavours to turn around its economic misfortunes. However, the environment must be conducive and enabling.

Annan highlighted that Zimbabwe had the necessary human and material resources to rebuild its economy.

“…Zimbabwe has everything it takes, to once again become a magnet for talent and investment provided it regains the trust of its citizens and investors,” he added.

The former UN chief further applauded all the political leaders who appended their signatures to the pledge.

“The pledge is all about trust building and I commend you all for signing it, you are sending a strong signal to your people and investors.”