stigmatization-of-black-elites-in-the-great-republic-of-zimbabwe-must-be-stopped _On the fast lane to 2030 by Maxwell Haitengeswinyika Teedzai_ *Embracing the success of black elites in a post-colonial Great Republic of Zimbabwe* | Mon Feb 3, 2025 In the aftermath of colonial rule, the Great Republic of Zimbabwe stands at a crossroads regarding how we view our Black elites. Many Zimbabweans harbor skepticism towards these individuals, often labeling them as corrupt or incompetent. This perspective fails to recognize the historical context that produced such elites—one defined by systemic exclusion and economic deprivation. During colonial times, opportunities for Black Zimbabweans were severely limited. The few who rose to prominence did so against immense odds in a system designed to favor White individuals. Wealth accumulated by White elites was often founded on the exploitation of Black resources and labor. In contrast, the success of Black elites today is too frequently dismissed as illegitimate. This double standard reveals a troubling bias. When a Black person achieves wealth, it is often attributed to theft or corruption, while White wealth is seen as legitimate and we call a successful Black man “Murungu” meaning White man! Such shameful views are not only unjust but also rooted in colonial rhetoric that continues to plague our collective mindset. The political landscape complicates matters further. Some within the opposition align themselves with White elites, despite their colonial past, which perpetuates the stigma against Black success. This aligns with a troubling trend of historical amnesia, where the violent history that enabled White wealth is conveniently forgotten. It's important to remember that during the colonial era, White elites often stood hand-in-glove with the colonial government, providing weapons to kill Blacks, food from farms to sustain Rhodesian Forces, and cash to fund terrorism against our Liberation Fighters. In stark contrast, our Black elites today are donating towards humanitarian development, showing a commitment to uplifting their communities. Instead of stigmatizing our own Black elites, we should celebrate their achievements as symbols of resilience and progress. Individuals like billionaire-in-the-making Sir Wicknell Chivayo of IntraTrek Zimbabwe Private Limited, Prevail International owner De Tempter Paul Tungwarara, Dr Philip Chiyangwa of Pinnacle Holdings, Mr Obey Chimuka of Fossil Zimbabwe, Mr Kuda Tagwirei of Sakunda Holdings, Hon Scott Sakupwanya of Betterbrands, Mr George Guvamatanga, and Mr Strive Masiyiwa of Econet Holdings Zimbabwe exemplify the potential within our communities. Their successes portray the capabilities and aspirations of Black Zimbabweans who are making strides in various sectors. Fighting corruption is not about going on a witch-hunt; it must be done in a professional manner and the right way. We cannot win over corruption through hatred and stigmatization of our economically advanced members of society. Rather, we should seek to learn from their wisdom so that we too can tap into the knowledge that makes a person successful. In contradisticntion the approach of the Second Republic to National development aims to put wealth into the pockets of individuals, as exemplified by the uplifting of many Zimbabweans from grass to grace—leaving no one and no place behind, as evidenced by our National Visionary HE President Dr ED Mnangagwa’s devolution mantra. The target is human or individual development because poverty is not in corporate sector but we are the ones in need of Vision 2030, in our towns and villages where we live Labels like "Zvigandana" serve only to reinforce outdated narratives that undermine our potential as Black people. Embracing the successes of our own can foster unity and a sense of pride in our collective journey. As we aim for a future where every Zimbabwean benefits from our Nation's resources, it is crucial to shift our mindset. By recognizing and supporting Black elites, we take a step toward a more just society. Let us promote a Vision of National development that leaves no one and no place behind, paving the way for an UMIS —. Upper-Middle-Income-Society by 2030. #bigupblackexcellence #thegreatrepublicofzimbabwe #unity #nationaldevelopmentgoals #rediscoveringprideinourselves