Zimbabwe honors resilience against sanctions with ...

Zimbabwe honors resilience against sanctions with ZASA awards

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

The Movement Against ZimSanctions and MAZ Arts and Culture have announced the finalists for the inaugural Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Awards 2024. The awards aim to recognize individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional resilience in the face of Western sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.

In a press statement, MAZ acknowledged the significant impact of sanctions on Zimbabwe's economy and society, while celebrating those who continue to serve the country despite these challenges. "Every Zimbabwean striving to put food on the table deserves recognition for their resilience," the statement read.

The ZASA Awards will feature a unique door-to-door presentation model, designed to promote engagement with the honorees and bring the awards closer to the people. Nominations for the awards were open to the public from March to July 2024, resulting in a diverse pool of finalists representing various sectors of Zimbabwean society.

Leadership Award: H.E President Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa (SADC Against ZimSanctions)

Innovation and Technology Award: Zimbabwe National Geospatial Agency

Hunger Eradication Award: Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development

Culture Restoration Award: Mai Rebecca Chisamba

Religion and Sanctions Award: Emmanuel Makandiwa (UFIC Church)

MAZ emphasized that the awards seek to tell the true Zimbabwean story, recognizing those who have persevered despite the hardships caused by sanctions. "As Zimbabweans push back against external pressures, the ZASA Awards will serve as a reminder of the need for collective resilience and innovation," the organization stated.