President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday urged Zimbabweans living abroad to be unwavering in the face of hardships they may face in their respective host countries.
This comes after Zimbabwean Elvis Nyathi was brutally murdered by an anti-immigrant mob in Diepsloot, Johannesburg, South Africa on 6 April for not having a passport.
Delivering his Independence Day Speech at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo this Monday, Mnangagwa said:
Like all other citizens, those in the Diaspora are indeed welcome to participate and invest in all sectors of the economy as we build the Zimbabwe we all want.
In the meantime, I urge our citizens in the Diaspora to remain resolute, in spite of the many challenging circumstances they may face in their host countries.
He added that those living in the diaspora who are willing to return home should do so and assured them that they will be welcomed with open arms. Said Mnangagwa:
As your President, rest assured that our arms as your fellow countrymen and women remain outstretched to welcome you back to our free, independent land of opportunities and sovereign home, Zimbabwe.
He also called for unity among Zimbabweans and the shunning of vices that derail the nations’ progress towards oneness. Said the President:
As we celebrate 42 years of our country’s independence, let us never allow divisive tendencies, greed and the pursuit of unpatriotic self-centred political gains, to weaken our bond of unity, peace, love and harmony.
Individually and collectively we have a duty to wholeheartedly serve and work hard for the development and prosperity of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe.
Good times lie ahead and the fruits of our labour will be there for all to enjoy.
With these remarks, it is now my distinguished privilege and honour to wish all those gathered here and other Zimbabweans at numerous venues countrywide and in the Diaspora, a Happy 42nd Independence Day Anniversary.