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Farirai Machivenyika and Susan Nyabunze
The Politburo yesterday welcomed the recent election of President Mugabe to chair the African Union, saying his vast experience would ensure that he successfully carries out his dual roles as chairperson of both the continental body and sadc.zanu-pf secretary for Information and Publicity Cde Simon Khaya Moyo described the election of the President as a source of national pride.

The Politburo congratulated the President following a report presented by Foreign Affairs Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, who is also the party secretary for External Affairs.

“The President was unanimously elected chairman of the AU and this is a moment we feel very proud of as the Politburo and as people of Zimbabwe,” said Cde Khaya Moyo. “We must not forget that he is the chairman of AU and simultaneously chair of sadc so this is a double role which cannot be taken lightly because it is a heavy responsibility. But knowing he is a man of charisma, a man of energy and vision we are all confident that with the support from his colleagues from the continent he will be able to shoulder these responsibilities remarkably.”

Cde Khaya Moyo said the Politburo commended President Mugabe for taking his time to tour the AU offices and meet staff members, something that previous chairpersons had not done.

“He managed to meet AU Commission staff, which had not happened from previous chairmen,” he said.

“They (AU Commission employees) were very happy that at least their chair had the opportunity to listen to them and hear their concerns, challenges and successes.”

Cde Khaya Moyo said the main challenge facing the AU was funding, with most of its financial resources coming from international donors. He said African nations had pledged to provide 75 percent of AU’s funding within the next five years as envisaged in Agenda 2063.

Cde Khaya Moyo said Agenda 2063 vision was meant to see African nations benefiting from their resources, a move which dovetailed with Zimbabwe’s economic blueprint Zim-Asset.