By A Correspondent – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Sheillah Chikomo, who is also the Member of Parliament for Mwenezi East, has come under criticism following her participation in a high-level diplomatic meeting in Brussels, Belgium, with critics questioning whether the trip will deliver any meaningful benefits for ordinary Zimbabweans.

Hon. Chikomo attended the 121st Session of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Council of Ministers, held from 15 to 16 July in Brussels, where she delivered a presentation on behalf of Zimbabwe.

Government supporters praised the visit under the slogan “Zimbabwe a friend for all,” saying Hon. Chikomo was “flying the flag high” while representing the country on the international stage.

The conference urged member states to accelerate the ratification of the Samoa Agreement and implement the Malabo Declaration, alongside broader institutional and financial reforms.

Critics, however, argue that the Brussels engagement is another example of government officials attending international conferences while millions of Zimbabweans continue to grapple with unemployment, inflation, poor public services and deteriorating living standards.

They say the slogan “Zimbabwe a friend for all” means little to citizens who are struggling to access quality healthcare, reliable infrastructure and economic opportunities. Critics also question what concrete outcomes the trip will produce for residents of Mwenezi East and the country at large.

Supporters of the government maintain that participation in international forums strengthens Zimbabwe’s diplomatic ties, promotes cooperation and creates opportunities for investment and development.
Nevertheless, critics insist that the value of such foreign engagements should be measured by tangible improvements in the lives of Zimbabweans rather than speeches delivered on international platforms.

As economic challenges persist, the debate continues over whether costly overseas diplomatic missions are producing real benefits or simply reinforcing perceptions that government priorities remain out of touch with the needs of ordinary citizens.