Veep calls for lifting of sanctions on Zimbabwe

30/09/09

Story: Musah Yahaya Jafaru

VICE-PRESIDENT John Dramani Mahama has called for the lifting of sanctions on Zimbabwe as the country has made strides towards promoting national unity and revamping the economy.
He said if the ban was lifted, Zimbabwe would be able to propel her socio-economic development with ease.
Mr Mahama made the call when the Deputy Prime Minister of Zimbabwe, Prof Arthur G. O. Mutambara, paid a courtesy call on him at the Castle, Osu, on Monday. He was accompanied by the Zimbabwean High Commissioner to Accra, Mrs Pavelyn Tendai Musaka.
Mr Mahama admitted that the 2002 elections in Zimbabwe witnessed some disturbing scenarios, and said the political situation in that country had improved since then.
He said there was unity in government while efforts were being made to revamp the economy.
The Vice President said Zimbabwe which used to be a net exporter of food, had regrettably now become a net importer of food.
He said Zimbabwe had the potential to lead the development efforts in Africa.
He, therefore, charged the leaders of that country to try to recapture their place in Africa and the world at large.
Prof Mutambara said Zimbabwe were also ready to learn from the political and economic experiences of Ghana.
He stressed on the need for Ghana and Zimbabwe to sign a joint partnership to enhance trade between the two countries.
He said there was the need for African countries to add value to their produce to attract more foreign investment.
Prof Mutambara said Zimbabwe had made strides at reuniting the political leadership and rejuvenating the economy.
Therefore, he said, Zimbabwe was ready to form alliances in rebranding that country and propel its socio-economic development.