By John Nhandara
THE African Diaspora Development iInstitute (ADDI) has added its voice to the anti-sanctions crusade, as the country’s gears up for the SADC Anti-Sanctions Day slated for the 25th of this month.
A team feom the institute, comprising medical doctors and entrepreneurs is in the country on a familiarisation tour ahead of the Pan African Conference set for Victoria Falls next year.
It described illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the West as unjustified and an impediment to economic development and sovereignty of the country.
The team is led by ADDI president, Dr Arikana Chihombori Quao who is also a former Zimbabwean ambassador to the United States.
“The sanctions have done a lot of damage. They are affecting the ability to do business. We have a responsibility to make sure we raise our voice against the sanctions. I need to ncommend African heads of state during UNGA for their level of solidarity. We need to speak with one voice. As Africans we must understand we are suffering because of the same visible hand,” she said.
The visiting members of the ADDI have been impressed by the peaceful environment in the country which they described as conducive for investment.
“I am impressed. I have experienced the best time of my lifetime here. What we hear is not what we saw, this is a beautiful country with loving people,” said ADDI member, Mr Venom Sims.
“There is an educated populace and desire for entrepreneurship. Zimbabweans are guardians of their independence,” added another member, Dr Cassandra Whitaker.
Pressure is mounting on the United States and its allies to lift the illegal sanctions imposed on the country, with Zimbabwe’s cause now receiving massive support from regional blocs such as SADC and the African Union.
