Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa from the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU–PF) has launched his party's election campaign in preparation for the August vote.
In his address Mnangagwa called on supporters to vote for the ruling party that "brought independence to the South African country."
"ZANU–PF shed blood for this country and no other party fought for this country, ZANU–PF is a colossal party," the president stressed.
He noted that his administration managed to fulfill many of its promises. According to Mnangagwa, the ruling party resolved the fuel crisis and electricity shortages.
The head of state noted that under his leadership, Zimbabwe had also managed to tackle the problem of food security.
"In a short period of time we have grown our agriculture from a $3.8 billion industry to $8 billion," he said.
Mnangagwa added that to improve food security, the government is building dams in all provinces of the country.
Similarly, the revitalization of the National Railways of Zimbabwe and the reconstruction of the country's outdated railway infrastructure remain in the plans, the president underlined.
In addition, Mnangagwa encouraged his supporters to produce local products, adding that this would help counter sanctions imposed by the West.
"We should not rely on imports and I know our people are talented and sharp; they are coming up with innovations to produce locally," he said. "The Second Republic's main priority is to bust sanctions through producing for ourselves."
Concluding his speech, the leader of the ruling party called for peace and unity in the run-up to the elections.
On Friday, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission endorsed 11 candidates for the presidential race scheduled for August 23. Mnangagwa and opposition leader Nelson Chamisa are expected to be the main contenders.
According to the commission, the second round of presidential voting would be held on October 2, if necessary. To avoid a run-off, a presidential candidate must win 50% plus one vote.