During the recent Europe Day celebrations, the European Union’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, marked his first year in office by reflecting on the milestones achieved and the ongoing challenges within the region. This commemoration provided a platform to highlight the EU’s commitment to fostering peace, supporting democracy, and engaging in meaningful cultural and economic partnerships with Zimbabwe.
Europe Day, commemorated on May 9, is a celebration of peace and unity across the continent, stemming from the historical wounds of World War II. Ambassador von Kirchmann emphasized that the day serves not only as a reminder of the EU’s origins but also of its enduring commitment to peace—a commitment recognized globally when the EU received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012.
The ambassador voiced concerns over global conflicts, particularly the situation in Ukraine, reaffirming the EU’s stance on upholding national sovereignty and democratic integrity. He underscored Europe’s diverse linguistic landscape, comprising 24 official languages, as a testament to its strength in diversity and unity.
Despite the progress, von Kirchmann acknowledged that the EU’s efforts in Zimbabwe are not fully recognized, attributing this to a communication gap that his delegation is eager to bridge. With Zimbabwe’s youthful demographic in mind, the EU has launched the Global Gateway Campaign—’Silami, Tinemi, and EU with you.’ This initiative seeks to connect with young Zimbabweans through cultural expressions like music, focusing on themes such as climate change and gender equality.
In terms of partnerships, the EU is actively collaborating with local NGOs and the corporate sector in Zimbabwe to advance education, green energy, health, and infrastructure projects. A key focus is the rehabilitation of the Kariba Dam, a high-tech initiative supported by various EU member states and corporate partners, illustrating the depth of the EU’s investment in Zimbabwe’s sustainable development.
The ambassador highlighted the EU’s response to the El Niño-induced drought in Zimbabwe, describing the provision of humanitarian aid and the building of resilience as urgent priorities. The EU has allocated over €200 million for drought relief and smart agriculture initiatives, with a significant portion already directed towards immediate relief efforts.
Trade relations between Europe and Zimbabwe remain robust, with von Kirchmann pointing out the opportunities for duty-free and tariff-free exchanges under the existing trade agreement. However, he noted a persistent challenge: the lack of access to crucial trading information among Zimbabwean traders and investors. The EU is committed to empowering local industries, ensuring that sectors like poultry, dairy, and machinery can thrive in European markets.
The EU continues to be a major contributor to Zimbabwe’s health sector, with an annual support of approximately US$130 million. This funding underscores the EU’s long-term commitment to improving health outcomes in the country.
On the topic of governance, the ambassador stressed the importance of democratic elections both in Europe, where upcoming elections involve over 400 million voters, and in Zimbabwe. He expressed respect for Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, emphasizing that the EU’s role is to support and not dictate, fostering partnerships based on shared values and interests.
In closing, von Kirchmann reiterated the EU’s motto, “United in Diversity,” which celebrates the cultural and linguistic diversity across its member states. This principle, he noted, aligns closely with the values enshrined in Zimbabwe’s constitution, advocating for unity and peace through mutual understanding and respect.
Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann’s address during the Europe Day celebrations provided a comprehensive overview of the EU’s multifaceted engagement in Zimbabwe. From cultural initiatives and economic partnerships to supporting democratic processes and providing humanitarian aid, the EU continues to play a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s journey towards sustainable development and democratic governance. As challenges persist, the continued collaboration between the EU and Zimbabwe will be crucial in navigating the complexities of modern geopolitical and economic landscapes.
Source: Newsday
