LIBERATION movement parties in Southern Africa have pledged to strengthen regional cooperation and pursue economic liberation strategies to improve citizens’ livelihoods.
The leaders agreed that liberation movements in the region must now focus on economic transformation, job creation and inclusive development to ensure that political independence translates into improved living standards for citizens.
The commitment was made during the 12th Meeting of Secretaries General of Southern Africa’s liberation movements hosted by Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) in Kibaha, Coast Region.
The meeting brought together secretaries general from six liberation movement parties across the region to discuss the political situation in Southern Africa, economic transformation and strategies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, CCM Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro said the discussions also focused on youth employment, women’s empowerment and inclusive economic growth as key priorities for the region.
Amb Migiro said that young people now make up a large share of the population across Southern Africa, making youth-centred development policies essential for sustainable growth.
She also emphasised the important role women continue to play in economic development and recalled their historical contribution during Africa’s liberation struggles.
“As liberation movements, we must continue strengthening strategies that build inclusive societies and resilient economies,” she said.
Climate change also featured prominently in the discussions, with representatives from Mozambique highlighting the recurring impact of cyclones and floods on communities and infrastructure.
Amb Migiro said the participating parties agreed on the importance of strengthening regional cooperation and investing in strategies to address climate-related challenges.
The meeting further reviewed resolutions from last year’s Summit of Heads of Liberation Movements held in South Africa, assessing the region’s political landscape and exploring ways to safeguard both political and economic independence.
According to Amb Migiro, leaders also reflected on the historical goals of liberation movements and discussed how to ensure that the independence already achieved continues to deliver meaningful benefits for citizens.
“The initial goal of our liberation movements was to attain political independence. Now that we have achieved that, the major responsibility of our parties is to promote economic development and social progress for our people,” she said.
She added that countries in the region must work together to consolidate both political independence and economic sovereignty while maintaining solidarity among nations that fought together during the liberation struggle.
Participants also discussed emerging geopolitical developments and global conflicts, examining how Southern African countries can remain united and resilient in addressing external challenges.
The meeting brought together representatives from six liberation movement parties including the African National Congress of South Africa, Chama Cha Mapinduzi of Tanzania, FRELIMO of Mozambique, SWAPO of Namibia, ZANU-PF of Zimbabwe and MPLA of Angola.
The parties also shared experiences on development progress in their respective countries, including improvements in infrastructure, social services and strategies aimed at building resilient economies.
Amb Migiro said CCM presented Tanzania’s efforts to expand infrastructure development, strengthen social services and implement measures aimed at building a strong and resilient economy, including initiatives addressing the impacts of climate change.
“These developments reflect the spirit and aspirations of the independence we attained many years ago. Now is the time to continue strengthening and sustaining the efforts that began during the liberation struggle,” she said.