However, her participation has sparked backlash from members of the Zimbabwean diaspora and human rights advocates.

Critics say her inclusion is at odds with the summit’s core values of integrity, empathy, and ethical leadership. Several Zimbabweans living in exile have accused her of being complicit in the country’s ongoing governance and human rights issues under the administration of her husband, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

In response to mounting pressure, a British Member of Parliament who had been scheduled to attend has reportedly withdrawn from the event. Meanwhile, organisers are now facing growing calls to remove Mnangagwa from the summit line-up altogether.

Vengai Mutsawu, a UK-based Zimbabwean human rights activist, said the First Lady’s presence undermines the credibility of the summit. “Allowing Auxillia Mnangagwa a platform at such a high-profile event sends the wrong message. It disregards the lived realities of many Zimbabweans who have fled political persecution,” he said.

The organisers of the summit have yet to issue a formal statement addressing the controversy. The event is billed as a platform to celebrate women’s leadership and to explore strategies for building resilience and sustainable impact across the continent.

--ChannelAfrica--