President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced on Tuesday that Zimbabwe reduced its poverty rate from 62 percent down to 38.3 percent between 1995 and 2019, representing one of the continent's most significant gains in living standards during recent decades. Speaking at the Second World Summit for Social Development held in Doha, the president said his nation achieved the progress despite facing economic sanctions and climate disruptions. Primary education enrollment climbed to 88 percent, while adult literacy stands at 93.6 percent.
Mnangagwa attributed the advances to government programs such as the Basic Education Assistance Module, which covers tuition costs annually for 1.5 million students. The Health Assistance Fund extends medical services to vulnerable populations, and agricultural initiatives have secured food supplies. Unemployment dropped to 20.5 percent from more than 30 percent during the mid-1990s. The president urged international institutions to reform financial systems that limit development opportunities for poorer nations.
Zimbabwe seeks backing for its campaign to gain a temporary Security Council position for the 2027-2028 term. Mnangagwa met separately with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Mozambican Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi during the conference.
Mnangagwa attributed the advances to government programs such as the Basic Education Assistance Module, which covers tuition costs annually for 1.5 million students. The Health Assistance Fund extends medical services to vulnerable populations, and agricultural initiatives have secured food supplies. Unemployment dropped to 20.5 percent from more than 30 percent during the mid-1990s. The president urged international institutions to reform financial systems that limit development opportunities for poorer nations.
Zimbabwe seeks backing for its campaign to gain a temporary Security Council position for the 2027-2028 term. Mnangagwa met separately with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Mozambican Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi during the conference.
