By Own Correspondent
Zimbabwe’s President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, was awarded the Liberation Vanguard Award by the Africa Youth Congress (AYC) on Wednesday, a recognition that has sparked mixed reactions.
The award was presented to Mnangagwa at a ceremony in Harare, which was attended by Taurai Kandishaya, a prominent Zanu PF Youth League official.
Speaking about the award, Kandishaya, who is also the President of the Africa Youth Congress, stated:
“Today, in my capacity as President of Africa Youth Congress, leading my delegation, I had the honour and privilege of handing over an award to President ED Mnangagwa from Africa Youth Congress, which was given to him at a congress held in Uganda in January.”
The Liberation Vanguard Award was presented to Mnangagwa in recognition of his “unwavering dedication and contribution to the liberation, freedom, justice, and sovereignty of African nations through self-determination across the continent,” according to Kandishaya. The award was touted as a tribute to Mnangagwa’s leadership in championing the African ideal of self-dependence, a sentiment he has consistently expressed with the “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo” mantra, which translates to “the country is built by its own people.”
Kandishaya further elaborated on the significance of the award, stating:
“The Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo mantra is a clear vision of self-dependence, inclusivity, and determination to nation-building.”
However, the award has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the motives behind such recognitions and the organization’s credibility. The timing of the award and the political implications surrounding Mnangagwa’s leadership have sparked debate, especially given the ongoing challenges faced by Zimbabwe under his rule, including issues of governance, human rights, and economic instability.
While Mnangagwa’s supporters have hailed the award as a well-deserved acknowledgment of his contributions to Africa’s sovereignty and self-determination, others view it as a politically motivated gesture by an organization closely linked to the ruling party.