A regional leader has reiterated the call for the repeal of the sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States of America and the European Union.
The call was made by Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi during a welcome reception for President Emmerson Mnangagwa who is in Maun, Botswana for the second session of the Bi-National Commission between the two countries. Said Masisi:
Specifically, Botswana strongly appeals for the repeal of the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act and the targeted sanctions programme imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States of America, we do so fully cognizant of the debilitating impact of the sanctions on Zimbabwe’s economy and citizens and undoubtedly the economies of neighbouring countries such as Botswana.
The effects of sanctions are far-reaching, they do not only deny Zimbabweans the dignity and pride that transcends from a healthy economy, but also erodes investor confidence which is essential for the country’s economy to flourish.
Some studies claim that the sanctions have cost Zimbabwe’s economy nearly US$100 billion over the past two decades.
The sanctions were imposed at the turn of the Millenium following Zimbabwe’s seizure of white-owned farms to address uneven land ownership.