Story by Oleen Ndori, Foreign Desk Editor
ZIMBABWE has called for the reform of global systems that serve both the developed and developing worlds.
This was said by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Ambassador Frederick Shava as he addressed the G77 + China summit in Havana, Cuba.
The summit also discussed the importance of science and technology, which have been seen to hold the key to the progress and development of any nation, as they plays a fundamental role in wealth creation, improvement of the quality of life and real economic growth for nation-states.
Delivering the country’s contribution to the G77 + China summit on behalf of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Ambassador Fredrick Shava lamented the prevailing economic order calling for reforms that include the Global South.
“Many of our countries are grappling with interlinked crises, and for us to develop sustainable and resilient solutions to these challenges we need to be innovative and make use of dynamic new technologies. The choice of the theme for our discussion is therefore not only timely but very pertinent.
“It is important to note that effective channels for technology transfer, particularly those related to sustainable development, and green and low-carbon technologies are essential in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Some of the major challenges facing members of our Group are a result of the unjust prevailing international economic order, which favours countries of the Global North. There is an urgent need to reform the unjust financial architecture,” said Ambassador Shava.
He also delved into the progress that has been made by Zimbabwe in technology and innovation, including innovation hubs and the launch of Zimbabwe’s first satellite.
“Zimbabwe is prioritising education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), to steer the country towards an innovation-led and knowledge-driven economy,”
“Zimbabwe launched its first Satellite, Zim-Sat1, on 7 November 2022. This is a milestone expected to enhance both mineral exploration and environmental monitoring. Innovation Hubs have been established at institutions of higher learning, which are focusing on research and innovation. To date, we have registered over 500 patents in various fields. In July 2022, we established a National Pathology Research and Diagnostic Centre to enable our people to access first-class specialized medical attention previously sourced from abroad,” said Ambassador Shava.
Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the summit, Ambassador Shava held a bilateral meeting with Cuba’s Minister of Public Health Dr. Jose Miranda where they discussed issues related to engagements in the healthcare sector.
“Our country has sent lots of medical professionals to Zimbabwe and we wish to develop this relationship in health. We would want to also develop the exchange in the technology sector from the production of different medicines used to treat cancer. We are open to leading in the pharmaceutical industry and this is the perfect moment to deepen these ties,” said Dr Miranda.
The summit saw member states stressing the urgent need for a comprehensive reform of the international financial architecture while also condemning technological monopolies and other unfair practices that hinder the technological development of developing countries.
