Over the last two decades, Zimbabwe’s foreign policy has been of isolation and engagement with the East. Ironically what came from the East is still to be seen, but if Zimbabweans vote for current President Emerson Mnangagwa as their next president in less than 39 days, then the country’s foreign policy could take a sharp turn and relations with the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Common wealth could fall into new depths.
True to his words he spoke on the 22nd of November 2017 that there was a need for cooperation from neighbouring countries in the SADC region, continent and from friends outside the continent for a lot to be achieved, Mnangagwa and his team that includes Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Dr. S.B Moyo, have gone on a marathon to prove that they are serious about re-engaging with those whom ZANU PF had fractious relations.
Responding to The Guardian Newspaper, Dr S.B Moyo said Zimbabwe was changing its outlook.
He said, “I am confident that Zimbabwe can be welcomed not only into the Commonwealth but also the wider family of nations.”
Recently we saw Myanmar, New Zealand, Tunisia and other states opening consulate offices in Zimbabwe. In less than 8 months, Mnangagwa had outdone himself. The question however is,What is in it for Bulawayo?
With the hunger ZANU PF has to setting things right, Bulawayo has to be ready for development boosts than ever before. The region popularly known for loudly echoing Gukurahundi atrocities of 1982-1985, seclusion and under development should be geared for a turnaround. Bulawayo residents need to be vigilant as they are likely to be on the right side of the compensation streak.
