Thousands of enthusiastic ZANU PF delegates from across Zimbabwe have converged in Mutare for the ruling party’s 22nd Annual National People’s Conference, which President Mnangagwa will officially open today.
Delegates, drawn from all provinces and representing the party’s cells, branches, districts, and provincial structures, expressed optimism that the high-level indaba will chart a stronger path towards achieving Vision 2030. Many said they look forward to robust discussions on economic empowerment, rural industrialisation, and strategies to combat drug and substance abuse.
One delegate from Mashonaland Central said the conference symbolised the unity and strength of the ruling party.
“We are here to reaffirm our commitment to Vision 2030 and to ensure that no one and no place is left behind in the development agenda,” he said.
Another delegate from Midlands Province said the conference offered a vital opportunity to strengthen grassroots participation in national development.
“This annual conference is very important on our calendar because it allows every structure — from the cell to the province — to have a voice in shaping our nation’s direction,” she said.
A delegate from Manicaland expressed confidence that the party will take decisive action on pressing social issues.
“We expect the party to adopt a strong stance against drug and substance abuse and to ensure that our youths are protected from this scourge,” he said.
Delegates have been accommodated at Mutare Teachers’ College, Mutare Polytechnic, and Marymount Teachers’ College, while senior officials are staying in hotels and lodges across the city.
The conference, running under the theme “Attainment of Vision 2030 through Economic Empowerment and Value Addition,” will deliberate on economic growth, value addition, and national development strategies.
It will also review the party’s internal affairs and evaluate the implementation of government policies.
The gathering will be attended by over 3,000 delegates, senior party officials, diplomats, and representatives from sister revolutionary movements across Africa.
Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri will present the state of the party report, followed by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga introducing President Mnangagwa, who will deliver the keynote address.
Cde Mukodza and Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, will deliver welcome remarks, while Secretary-General Advocate Jacob Mudenda will outline the agenda and ensure procedural compliance.
President Mnangagwa is expected to launch the National Tree-Planting Initiative by leading a symbolic tree-planting exercise at the site of the new ZANU PF provincial offices, tour the business exhibitions, and commission two major projects — the Mega Market Milling Plant and the National Pharmaceutical Warehouse at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.
Local businesses have also benefited from the influx of delegates. Hotels, restaurants, and transport operators in Mutare reported brisk business, with one restaurant owner, Ms Letwin Danga, saying, “The city is more vibrant, and business has been booming. We are grateful for the positive impact.”
The week-long conference is expected to culminate in the reading of resolutions by the Secretary for Legal Affairs, Cde Ziyambi Ziyambi, while Vice President Kembo Mohadi will deliver the vote of thanks, closing what promises to be a landmark event in the party’s 2025 calendar.
