President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa has condemned Western sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe, describing some of their actions as “stupid,” while expressing gratitude to Ghana for backing calls for their removal.

The remarks were made during bilateral talks on Thursday, April 2, as part of his three-day state visit to Ghana.

Sanctions have been in place against Zimbabwe since the early 2000s, imposed by countries such as the United States and the European Union. These measures were introduced in response to Zimbabwe’s land reform programme, as well as concerns over alleged human rights violations and electoral irregularities during the rule of former President Robert Mugabe.

They mainly involve travel restrictions and asset freezes targeting selected officials and entities, along with limits on access to international financial support.

Addressing the issue directly, President Mnangagwa stressed the need for Africans to shape their own narratives.

“The importance of telling our own stories as Africans through our own lenses and narratives must continue to be emphasised.”

He also highlighted Zimbabwe’s foreign policy direction and its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

“Guided by our foreign policy thrust that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none, our country is bidding for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027 to 2028 term.”

The Zimbabwean leader expressed appreciation to Ghana for its diplomatic backing.

“We thank Ghana for your continued support as we prepare to contribute to global peace and security.”

He further conveyed strong criticism of the sanctions and gratitude for Ghana’s advocacy for their removal.

“Allow me, my dear brother, to also express Zimbabwe’s deep gratitude to Ghana for your steadfast support in calling for the unconditional removal of the unjust illegal unilateral sanctions imposed on us by some stupid Western countries for more than two and a half decades.”

Despite the restrictions, President Mnangagwa insisted that Zimbabwe has remained resilient.

“Despite the albatross of these illegal and inhuman sanctions, Zimbabwe remains resilient, scoring unprecedented development and economic milestones across all sectors.”