In an address on national television, President Emmerson Mnangagwa voiced optimism about containing the spread of the virus in a country that has officially reported only 24 cases.
Zimbabwe on Saturday celebrated the 40th anniversary of its independence, but without the traditional pomp and nationwide rallies because of a coronavirus lockdown.
“We celebrate our milestone 40th anniversary in the context of unprecedented times, that of the pandemic,” Mnangagwa said, noting that the virus had scuttled plans to host celebrations for the first time in the second city of Bulawayo. Zimbabwe usually commemorates its independence from British colonial rule with rallies across the country’s 10 provinces with the main event held in a 60,000-seater stadium in the capital Harare.“However, the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic is seeing us endure a necessary lockdown in our homes,” Mnangagwa said, imploring Zimbabweans to stay at home, practise social-distancing and regularly wash hands.
Meanwhile he commended the European Union for relaxing sanctions imposed on members of the ruling elite and institutions with links to the ruling ZANU-PF party. “I implore Washington to promptly lift the illegal sanctions against us without any preconditions,” Mnangagwa said.
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