2025: Year of hard work, national development

Innocent Mujeri

Herald Correspondent

As Zimbabwe strides into 2025, the imperative for a collective commitment to hard work, efficiency, and national development cannot be overstated.

This year must be characterised by production, innovation, and transformation, leaving no room for mediocrity, absenteeism, or inefficiency.

Inspired by President Mnangagwa’s inaugural address in November 2017, we are called to reaffirm the ideals of accountability, dedication, and service to the nation.

In his 2017 address, President Mnangagwa underscored the pivotal role of civil servants in rebuilding the nation’s economy and delivering essential services.

His words resonate strongly today: “Gone are the days of absenteeism and desultory application; days of unduly delaying and forestalling decisions and services in the hope of extorting dirty rewards.”

These powerful statements should inspire not only civil servants but every Zimbabwean to embrace responsibility and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Civil servants are indeed the lifeblood of Government operations. They are entrusted with implementing policies and ensuring the machinery of Government runs smoothly.

However, as President Mnangagwa aptly noted, “The culture in Government just has to change.” Civil servants must rise above inefficiency, corruption, and lethargy, embodying a culture of hard work, integrity, and innovation.

This year, civil servants should adopt a results-oriented approach where every hour of work translates into tangible outcomes benefiting the nation.

Public offices must transform into hubs of efficiency, responsiveness, and empathy. Delays in decision-making and service delivery not only harm citizens, but also hinder national progress. A proactive, solution-driven, and citizen-focused civil service will set the tone for a productive and prosperous Zimbabwe.

While civil servants play a key role, the responsibility for driving national development extends to every Zimbabwean. Whether a farmer, entrepreneur, teacher, artisan, or student, the call to action is the same: roll up your sleeves and contribute to the country’s growth.

In agriculture, for instance, farmers must leverage modern techniques and technologies to boost productivity and ensure food security.

The manufacturing and industrial sectors must innovate to produce goods that meet both local and international demands.

Entrepreneurs should seize opportunities to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, while educators prepare the next generation of Zimbabweans to be skilled, knowledgeable, and competitive.

Zimbabwe is endowed with abundant natural resources and a hardworking populace.

However, unlocking our potential requires fostering a culture of hard work and accountability.

As President Mnangagwa stated in 2017, “A new culture must now inform and animate our daily conduct.”

This culture must permeate all aspects of society, from workplaces to schools, and from communities to Government offices.

One of the most significant obstacles to national development is corruption. When public servants and authorities prioritise personal gain over public service, the entire nation suffers. Corruption erodes trust, diverts resources, and undermines progress. A firm stance against this menace in 2025 is imperative.

Systems must be established to ensure transparency and prevent the misuse of public funds. Citizens also have a role in reporting corrupt practices and demanding accountability from those in power.

Efficiency is another critical factor. Bureaucratic red tape, delays in service delivery, and a lack of urgency in decision-making must become relics of the past.

Flexibility and adaptability must be integrated into Government operations to ensure swift decision-making and implementation.

As President Mnangagwa highlighted, Government must not become “one huge, ponderous stumbling block to decisions that must be made and communicated expeditiously.”

In today’s fast-paced world, innovation and technology are indispensable for national development.

Zimbabwe must embrace these tools to enhance productivity, improve service delivery, and compete globally. Government departments should adopt digital systems to streamline operations and reduce inefficiencies. Entrepreneurs and businesses should explore innovative solutions to address challenges and create opportunities.

For instance, e-governance can revolutionise governmental interactions with citizens, making services more accessible and efficient.

In agriculture, precision farming and smart technologies can increase yields and minimise waste.

In education, digital platforms can bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring every child has access to quality learning resources.

The private sector also plays a crucial role in driving innovation and investment. Public-private partnerships can mobilise resources and expertise to tackle some of the nation’s most pressing challenges, from infrastructure development to job creation.

The youth and women of Zimbabwe are invaluable assets in the journey towards national development.

Their energy, creativity, and resilience must be harnessed to drive progress. Programmes that empower young people with skills, knowledge, and opportunities should be prioritised. Similarly, women’s participation in all sectors of the economy must be encouraged and supported.

In 2025, Zimbabwe should continue to be an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of gender or age, has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from national development.

The talents and potential of every citizen must be recognised and nurtured.

As a nation, Zimbabwe cannot afford any hindrance to its development. Whether it be corruption, inefficiency, or a lack of commitment, these obstacles must be confronted and eliminated.

Every Zimbabwean must take personal responsibility for their role in national progress. This call extends beyond civil servants and leaders to all citizens.

Each individual’s actions, no matter how small, contribute to the broader picture of national development.

Whether it is a teacher inspiring their students, a farmer cultivating their fields, or an entrepreneur launching a business, every effort counts. Collectively, these actions create a ripple effect that propels the nation forward.

As we embark on this journey in 2025, let us remember that the future of Zimbabwe is in our hands. By embracing a culture of hard work, accountability, and innovation, we can transform our nation into one that is prosperous, inclusive, and resilient.

President Mnangagwa’s words in 2017 serve as a powerful reminder of what is at stake: “We have an economy to recover, a people to serve.” This is the year to honour that call, to rise above challenges, and to work tirelessly for the development of our beloved nation. Let us make 2025 a year of action, a year of production, and a year of progress.

Zimbabwe deserves nothing less.