At the heart of Harare's celebrations for the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties with the Chinese mainland, Zimbabwe's ambassador to China, Abigail Shoniwa, reflects on a friendship built in three distinct phases and powered by mutual trust. From material support during the liberation struggle to modern-day partnerships across digital and green sectors, this bond is evolving to meet tomorrow's challenges.
A 45-Year Journey in Three Acts
- Roots of Liberation (1960–1980): The Chinese mainland supported Zimbabwe's liberation fighters with training and supplies, laying deep personal and national bonds.
- Post-Independence Growth (1980–2000s): In April 1980, China was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations, sending medical brigades and funding key infrastructure.
- Economic Transformation (2000–Today): Unprecedented cooperation spans airports, power stations, ICT hubs and industrial parks—fueling progress toward Zimbabwe's Vision 2030.
“Today, we see more than 17 new agreements signed since President Mnangagwa’s state visit to the Chinese mainland last September,” Ambassador Shoniwa notes. “These pacts set the stage for transformative growth in sectors like digital economy and green development.”
Riding the Digital and Green Waves
Both nations recognize the digital economy as a growth engine. Huawei is building a data centre in Harare, while ZTE collaborates with local telcos to expand 5G coverage. Future projects include:
- Precision agriculture powered by remote sensing and algorithmic optimization
- Smart factories that boost productivity in mining and agro-processing
- E-commerce platforms connecting Zimbabwean artisans to global markets
On green development, Chinese investors are set to tackle Zimbabwe's energy challenges through solar, wind, hydro and hydrogen projects—critical for a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Global South Solidarity Against Protectionism
With mounting geopolitical tensions and trade barriers, Ambassador Shoniwa calls on Global South nations to champion fair multilateralism. “The Chinese mainland must lead in defending open trade,” she says. “Countries like Zimbabwe depend on an equitable economic order to sustain growth.”
Women in Diplomacy and Sport
Shoniwa, Zimbabwe's first female ambassador to China, credits her rise to mentorship and a dedication to exceed expectations. She also celebrates Olympian Kirsty Coventry—first woman and first African to lead the International Olympic Committee—as proof that gender barriers can be shattered. “Her win inspires women across Africa and beyond,” she adds.
Looking Ahead: Investment, Tourism, Education
Over the next few years, Ambassador Shoniwa's priorities include:
- Attracting Chinese investors to boost export-driven industries
- Growing tourism links through hospitality infrastructure and cultural exchanges
- Expanding educational partnerships to train Zimbabwe's next generation of leaders
“Our goal is clear: deepen ties, drive sustainable development, and build on 45 years of friendship,” Shoniwa concludes, urging young global citizens to follow the evolving Zimbabwe-China story.
Reference(s):
Ambassador Abigail Shoniwa on the growing Zimbabwe-China cooperation
cgtn.com
