Monica Cheru

Creative Editor

Unity  is one of the key pillars to Africa's success in its quest to become a global economic powerhouse, and the long relationship between Zimbabwe and Tanzania should be utilised for growth into the future. 

This was said yesterday by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Dr. Frederick Shava in a speech read on his behalf to officially open the one - day academin symposium to celebrate 60 years of Tanzania's Independence held at the University of Zimbabwe.

"It is my sincere hope that we will maintain our relations and continue to work for the building of our economies, towards the full economic liberation for our people," said Dr. Shava.

Tanzanian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Professor Emmanuel Mbennah said the milestone of 60 years of independence was not an occasion for Tanzanians only, but for all Africans living on the continent and in the Diaspora.

He said Tanzania was determined to work with others " until the continent was free of colonialism and apartheid and moving towards the next goal of economic development and liberation and unity that will make Africa into an influential powerhouse in the world economy."

The hybrid in-person and virtual event was planned by the Tanzanian Embassy in Harare in partnership with the University of Zimbabwe (UZ)  and the Southern African Research and Documentation (SARDC).

The symposium is part of a series of activities to commemorate the key anniversary.

Tanzania is a nation forged out of unity of two States, Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

Ambassadors from Africa  as well as other countries  and members of the academic world joined virtually and gave congratulatory messages.

In the colonial period, Tanzania was a base for the independence armies of several African countries including Zimbabwe.

UZ Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Mapfumo said Tanzania was a role model that Zimbabwe is emulating.

"In implementing this Education 5.0 strategy, we look down the path and we see the footprints of great Africans,of which Tanzania stands as the epitome," said Prof. Mapfumo.The symposium was themed on Tanzania's achievements, challenges and impact beyond borders.

 

Other presenters included UZ staff and Phyllis Johnson from SARDC.