Zimbabwe and China’s 45-Year Friendship: Ambassador Shoniwa Reflects and Looks Ahead
Zimbabwe and China are celebrating 45 years of diplomatic relations, marking a journey of enduring friendship and growing cooperation. Ambassador Abigail Shoniwa, Zimbabwe’s first female ambassador to China, shares insights into this evolving partnership and her hopes for the future.
Reflecting on the milestone, Ambassador Shoniwa describes the Zimbabwe-China friendship as rooted in mutual respect and support. “Our relationship has a strong and solid foundation stretching back to the pre-independence era,” she says. “It’s been a journey, and that relationship has grown stronger and stronger.”
She outlines three phases in the evolution of the relationship. The first phase, from 1960 to 1980, was during Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence, where China provided material support and training for liberation fighters. “It’s a friendship anchored on the free Zimbabwe we enjoy today,” she notes.
The second phase, from 1980 to the early 2000s, saw the establishment of diplomatic relations and closer political ties. China continued its support by sending medical brigades and undertaking various development projects in Zimbabwe.
The third phase, from the early 2000s to the present, is characterized by unprecedented levels of cooperation across virtually all sectors. “We’ve seen increased investment by Chinese companies and the government,” Ambassador Shoniwa explains. Major infrastructure projects, including new airports, hospitals, ICT developments, and power stations, are transforming Zimbabwe.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Shoniwa is optimistic about deeper collaboration, especially in emerging sectors like the digital economy and green development. “China has made tremendous progress in these areas,” she says. “Zimbabwe has a lot to learn, and we are hungry for cooperation that will enable us in various sectors.”
She highlights ongoing projects like Huawei’s assistance in building a data center and ZTE’s work with Zimbabwe’s telecom companies. Opportunities abound in areas such as e-commerce, industrial digitalization, precision agriculture, and renewable energy solutions.
Amid global challenges, Ambassador Shoniwa emphasizes the importance of countries in the Global South standing together to build a fair, just, and equitable economic order. “We look forward to countries like China for leadership to rally around all others and deal with disruptions,” she states.
A trailblazer herself, Ambassador Shoniwa acknowledges the growing role and impact of women in governance and international diplomacy. “As women, we have shown that we are equal to the task,” she asserts, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve her country.
She also celebrates the achievements of Zimbabwe’s own Kirsty Coventry, a trailblazing athlete and leader in international sports. “She’s done us proud. She’s done Africa proud. She’s done women proud,” Ambassador Shoniwa exclaims.
Observing the rapid development in China during her tenure, Ambassador Shoniwa is keen to foster more partnerships. “We are really looking forward to cooperating with China,” she says. “We are receiving a lot of support and engaging with many companies and provincial authorities.”
Ambassador Shoniwa’s key priorities include attracting more investments, boosting tourism, enhancing productivity, and increasing exports. “We will do our best,” she declares. “The stage is set, and we have direction on the areas we need to follow through.”
