Mnangagwa Takes Development Rhetoric To Eswatini Amid Economic Turmoil At Home – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– President Emmerson Mnangagwa has once again projected Zimbabwe as a nation committed to infrastructure development, even as the country continues to grapple with deepening economic hardship, rising costs of living, and stalled projects that have failed to deliver visible relief to ordinary citizens.

Speaking in Eswatini after attending celebrations marking King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne and 58th birthday at Somhlolo National Stadium on Friday, Mnangagwa repeated familiar assurances about continuous development, but on the ground in Zimbabwe, many citizens say such messages have become increasingly detached from reality.

“Every country, big or small, there is no end to development. Development is continuous,” he said. “You cannot have a country which says it has developed enough; it must now rest. That would be overthrown.”

However, the contrast between the high-level diplomatic gathering and Zimbabwe’s worsening economic situation has drawn criticism, with citizens facing unemployment, inflationary pressure and deteriorating public services despite repeated government promises of progress.

The event brought together several regional leaders, including Duma Boko and Daniel Chapo, yet observers say such forums often highlight political solidarity more than practical solutions to domestic economic crises affecting ordinary people.

“So, it could be Eswatini, Zimbabwe, whatever country; development is an agenda that never ends. It’s a continuous process,” Mnangagwa added.

The President also framed Zimbabwe’s participation in the celebrations as evidence of strong diplomatic relations with Eswatini, but critics argue that such international engagements rarely translate into meaningful economic gains for struggling citizens at home.
“Actually, we feel it’s an honour that we’ve been invited to witness and be part of the celebrations here,” he said.

“It shows the brotherhood and the friendly relations that exist between Zimbabwe and the Kingdom here. And we are very happy to be here.”
Mnangagwa further stressed the importance of infrastructure investment, particularly roads and public works, as a driver of economic growth. Yet, questions persist over the slow pace of completion and limited impact of several flagship projects, which many say have not improved daily life for most Zimbabweans.

On trade, he called for deeper economic integration with Eswatini, but his statement drew attention for its wording.

“Everything that is tradable, we should trade, including people,” he said, a remark that raised concerns about the framing of labour movement in economic policy discussions.

The visit comes as Zimbabwe continues to promote infrastructure programmes and regional agreements, including a Bilateral Air Services Agreement aimed at improving connectivity. However, scepticism remains over whether such initiatives are easing the economic pressures faced by ordinary citizens.

Mnangagwa’s trip to Eswatini follows previous regional engagements, reinforcing diplomatic ties, but back home many Zimbabweans continue to feel left behind as official rhetoric of development contrasts sharply with everyday economic realities.

He returned to Zimbabwe later in the day and was received at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by senior Government officials, including Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi.

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