HARARE, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday led the nation in celebrating its 46th independence anniversary, calling for unity to achieve the country's "Vision 2030" goal of becoming an upper-middle-income economy.

In his national address at Maphisa Stadium, Matabeleland South Province, Mnangagwa noted post-independence progress in various sectors of the country's economy, including efforts to modernize and industrialize the economy.

To accelerate growth, he emphasized the need for full economic emancipation through ownership of the means of production, the swift implementation of people-centered initiatives, and the adoption of advanced technologies and innovation.

The president noted that the government is intensifying efforts to unlock the potential of mineral resources by curbing raw mineral exports and promoting local value addition.

Regarding national infrastructure, Mnangagwa affirmed that the modernization of road networks remains underway, especially in the aftermath of recent flood damage.

Zimbabwe gained independence from British colonial rule on April 18, 1980. ■