07/09/2025
CAES ZIMBABWE’S CLLR MGUNI REPRESENTS ZIMBABWE AT THE 10TH EASTERN ECONOMIC FORUM IN RUSSIA
From 3–6 September 2025, Cllr Simphiwe Vuyelwa Mguni Simphiwe Vuyelwa Mguni
proudly represented Zimbabwe at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok, Russia. Her invitation to this distinguished platform came through the New Generation Programme, a presidential initiative of the Russian Federation, following her recognition as First Runner-Up at the 2024 BRICS+ Youth Innovation Summit in Pretoria, South Africa. Out of thousands of candidates across the globe, only thirty young leaders were selected, and Cllr Mguni stood among them as a symbol of Zimbabwe’s growing engagement with the international community.
During the Forum, she participated in several high-level sessions that examined pressing global issues. These included the Russia–Laos Business Dialogue, a session on the United Nations Development Agenda 2030, and a landmark plenary attended by President Vladimir Putin alongside leaders from Mongolia, Laos and China. On the final day, she contributed to the discussion entitled “Youth and Marketplaces 2030: Technologies, Entrepreneurship, and Regions in the New Reality”, where she joined voices exploring the role of young people in shaping the global economy through technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Her selection to participate was rooted in recognition of her leadership and contributions in communication, youth mobilisation, and advocacy. She serves as Head of Communication and PR for Arise Women of Africa, founder of the Matabeleland South Information Desk, and National Head of Information and Publicity for Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) Zimbabwe. Her presence at the Forum was not only a personal milestone but also a victory for Zimbabwean youth, demonstrating that despite barriers, they continue to play an active role in shaping international conversations about development and cooperation.
Zimbabwe’s participation in such international forums carries deeper significance in light of the illegal sanctions imposed on the country by the West. These measures, designed to isolate and weaken Zimbabwe, have instead inspired resilience, unity, and creativity. Russia has faced similar sanctions, particularly in recent years, and has responded by strengthening internal capacities while fostering cooperation with partners who respect sovereignty and independence. The Forum itself was evidence of Russia’s ability to convene nations and build opportunities despite external pressure.
This shared experience of sanctions has created a natural solidarity between Zimbabwe and Russia. Both countries understand the challenges of economic restrictions, trade barriers, and attempts at political isolation. In standing together, they send a strong message that sanctions cannot erase sovereignty or block the determination of peoples to chart their own futures. Platforms such as the Eastern Economic Forum provide opportunities for cooperation in areas like energy, agriculture, education, and technology, enabling both nations to grow stronger through partnership.
For CAES Zimbabwe, Cllr Mguni’s participation is a reminder that sanctions are not a death sentence but a challenge to be overcome through innovation, resilience, and solidarity. The bond between Zimbabwe and Russia reflects a shared defiance against unjust measures imposed by the West, and a commitment to building new pathways of cooperation. As Zimbabwean youth continue to break barriers and represent the nation on global stages, they embody the spirit of resilience that defines both nations. Sanctions may attempt to silence, but together Zimbabwe and Russia demonstrate that unity and determination will always prevail.
