AU renews call to lift sanctions on Zimbabwe
AU Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf says the sanctions hold back Zimbabwe's economy and its development goals, on the eve of SADC Anti-Sanctions Day.
Addis Ababa — The African Union has renewed its call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of unilateral sanctions on Zimbabwean institutions and individuals. In a statement on Friday, 23 October, AU Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the sanctions continue to hold back Zimbabwe's economic progress, MyJoyOnline reports.
The AU's case
According to the Commission, the sanctions have:
- restricted Zimbabwe's access to international financial systems
- deterred foreign investment and raised the cost of doing business
- limited its ability to secure development assistance
They also undermine progress towards Zimbabwe's Vision 2030, SADC's regional integration targets, the AU's Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Commission said. Youssouf pledged the AU's support for efforts to have them removed and said the AU stands fully with the statement issued by the SADC chairperson on behalf of the region.
Southern African countries mark SADC Anti-Sanctions Day on 25 October each year.
Source: MyJoyOnline, 23 October 2026.
