Cuba’s Legacy in Africa: Fidel Castro’s Enduring Impact Across the Continent

The late Cuban leader and Commander‑in‑Chief, Fidel Castro, was a revolutionary whose ideas inspired young Zimbabweans to join the liberation struggle and fight for independence, said ZANU‑PF National Political Commissar Cde Munyaradzi Machacha.

During the centennial commemorations of Fidel Castro, held yesterday at the Cuban Embassy in Harare, Cde Machacha paid tribute to Castro for his pivotal role before and after Zimbabwe’s independence in strengthening bilateral relations.

The late Commander‑in‑Chief, Fidel Castro Ruz, inspired many young people of the era to join the liberation struggle and fight for independence. Numerous youths were trained by Cuban partners during both the struggle and the post‑independence period, further solidifying the relationship.

Cuba provided substantial assistance by offering Zimbabwean students the opportunity to pursue advanced education at its universities.

On the international stage, our anti‑colonial and anti‑imperialist stance resonated widely, as we advocated for a fairer and more balanced global economic and social order,” Cde Machaca noted.

He praised Cuba for consistently supporting Africa’s position at international forums and for its pivotal role in Angola’s resistance against apartheid South Africa, which contributed to Namibia’s independence.

Cde Machaca noted that Castro’s influence across Africa was both contagious and profound.

Cuba’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Susellys Pérez Mesa, described Fidel Castro as a tireless defender of just causes who dedicated his life—through sacrifice—to the people of Africa, whose ties to Cuba remain unbreakable.

He maintained a deep and special relationship with Africa, expressed through military support for liberation movements against colonialism and apartheid, as well as assistance with their subsequent development and numerous visits to these sister nations,” Ambassador Mesa said.

Fidel Castro, who passed away in November 2016 at age 90, remains one of the celebrated influential figures from the Global South, renowned for his strong anti‑imperialist and internationalist ideals.

The commemorations were attended by senior government officials, ZANU‑PF Politburo members, accredited diplomats, and representatives from organisations that stand in solidarity with Cuba.

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