Amid Zimbabwe’s rising drive for investment and partnerships, U.S. Ambassador Pamela Tremont and Foreign Affairs Minister Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira reaffirmed their countries’ mutual commitment to prosperity, cooperation, and peace during the 249th U.S. Independence Day celebration in Harare.
A month ahead of America’s July 4th holiday, the U.S. Embassy in Harare hosted its annual Independence Day celebration on June 4th, bringing together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and development partners. With tourism-themed virtual reality exhibits and strong participation from U.S. companies in Zimbabwe, the day spotlighted the power of cultural diplomacy and economic collaboration.
Ambassador Pamela Tremont, marking one year in her post, delivered a speech that was reflective and forward-looking. She paid tribute to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which is concluding its 45-year presence in Zimbabwe by mid-August.
“Zimbabwe has found no greater partner in this effort than USAID,” she said, citing milestones like supporting 560,000 people with HIV treatment through PEPFAR, helping 47,000 farmers double their yields, and providing clean water to 100,000 citizens.
Despite USAID’s exit, Tremont emphasized that U.S. engagement in Zimbabwe and across Africa remains a strategic priority. “The administration’s goal is clear: to increase U.S. exports to and trade with Africa and drive mutual prosperity.”
In his keynote, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira echoed the spirit of partnership, reaffirming Zimbabwe’s “friend to all, enemy to none” foreign policy. He outlined the country’s commitment to dignity, peace, and inclusive global engagement.
Murwira welcomed continued U.S. investment and praised American companies like John Deere and ZimWorks. He noted the United States’ strong participation at the 2025 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair and encouraged further investment, highlighting reforms aimed at improving the business environment.
Throughout both addresses, the emphasis was on economic opportunity. Tremont spoke of commercial diplomacy efforts, including the role of the American Chamber of Commerce in Zimbabwe and business matchmaking by the U.S. Embassy. She also stressed the importance of governance and transparency.
“For investment to thrive,” she noted, “Zimbabwe must strengthen rule of law, protect property rights, and address corruption. A vibrant investment climate creates a culture of opportunity—for both sides.”
Murwira, with humility, noted that Zimbabwe is still young compared to America’s 249 years but is eager to forge transparent, mutually beneficial partnerships.
The two speakers all quoted President John F. Kennedy’s 1963 message to African leaders: “Africa’s continuing march toward independence, unity, and freedom mirrors the principles revered by the American people.”
USAID’s departure marks the end of an era, but not the end of engagement. As Zimbabwe works to improve investor protections and the U.S. deepens trade ties with Africa, a new chapter of bilateral cooperation is unfolding.
As these two nations approach milestone anniversaries—America’s 250th and Zimbabwe’s 45th—leaders on both sides are calling for a future defined not by dependency but by partnership. A shared pursuit of liberty, prosperity, and dignity on both sides of the Atlantic.
The event, which was opened with national anthems beautifully sung by Adiona Chidzonga, ended with entertainment from Afro musicians Fusion Five Mangwiro.
