President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans living abroad to play a greater role in the country's development, saying the contribution of the diaspora remains critical to national progress, just as it was during the liberation struggle.
Speaking at the burial of national hero Ambassador Victor Matemadanda at the National Heroes Acre on Friday, the President said the late diplomat's life illustrated the historic and continuing importance of Zimbabweans living outside the country.
Mnangagwa said Matemadanda, who grew up in Zambia after his family relocated there, abandoned a stable life to join the liberation struggle, helping mobilise support for freedom fighters and refugees in Zambia and Mozambique before taking part in frontline operations.
"The life of the late National Hero reminds us of the important role the Diaspora has always played towards the independence, development and growth of our motherland, Zimbabwe," the President said.
He said Zimbabweans living abroad had made significant sacrifices during the liberation struggle by providing financial support, transporting fighters, caring for the wounded and assisting refugees.
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Mnangagwa said that same spirit continues today, commending Zimbabweans working in foreign countries for contributing to the country's industrialisation and development agenda.
Diaspora remittances to Zimbabwe reached a record US$2.45 billion in 2025, representing roughly a 14% increase from 2024 and accounting for over 15% of the country's total foreign currency receipts. For the first time, the United Kingdom overtook South Africa as the top source of remittance inflows
"Zimbabwe is our home together. We all belong here... those who have remained at home shall always welcome those returning with wide-open arms," he said.
The President described Matemadanda as a liberation war veteran, former military officer, politician and diplomat whose service spanned the armed struggle, government, Parliament and diplomacy. He said the ambassador helped preserve Zimbabwe's liberation heritage by working with the Mozambican government to maintain historic liberation sites, including Chimoio, Tembwe and Nyadzonya.
Mnangagwa said Matemadanda's commitment to national service should inspire Zimbabweans to continue building the country through unity, productivity and patriotism.
Ambassador Matemadanda died on June 20 and was declared a national hero and buried at the National Heroes Acre on Friday.
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