African Union calls for unconditional lifting of sanctions on Zimbabwe

ADDIS ABABA – The Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has once again called for the immediate and unconditional lifting of the unilateral sanctions imposed on institutions and individuals from the Republic of Zimbabwe.

The Chairperson expressed strong concern about the negative impact of these sanctions on the social and economic progress of Zimbabwe. He stated that these measures have restricted the country's access to international financial systems, posed challenges to foreign direct investment, and increased business costs.

Additionally, the sanctions have limited Zimbabwe's ability to access developmental aid, which has affected the country's efforts towards achieving its development plan of Vision 2030.

The Chairperson of the African Union noted that these sanctions are an obstacle to the implementation of the economic integration goals of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union's Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

He affirmed the African Union's commitment to supporting Zimbabwe, indicating that the organization will continue its efforts to seek the lifting of the sanctions.

On the other hand, the African Union stated that it fully supports the statement made by the Chairperson of the SADC regarding the call for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.