Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
THE National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) has officially taken effect, with stakeholders across the country mapping medium to long-term targets amid calls for discipline, transparency and strong corporate governance structures to ensure the successful implementation of the five-year economic blueprint.
Stakeholders say the success of NDS2 will be critical in achieving Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 aspirations, with strong institutions identified as the cornerstone of effective implementation.
Speaking on the importance of institutional strength, Bindura University of Science Education Executive Dean, Dr David Makwerere, said sound governance structures are fundamental to national progress.
“Institutions of governance form the backbone of any progressive nation. As we transition into NDS2, strong governance institutions are critical in consolidating the gains of NDS1,” he said.
“There is unfinished business from NDS1 that continues into NDS2, and this requires strong institutions for policy direction, accountability, fighting corruption, building investor confidence, and promoting equality, including gender equality and the inclusion of marginalised groups.”
Professor Proctor Nyemba from the Institute of Corporate Directors said lessons drawn from the implementation of NDS1 should inform stronger execution going forward.
“It is commendable that the Second Republic has moved from NDS1 to NDS2 after identifying weaknesses in implementation. Going forward, there must be a strong emphasis on corporate governance and leadership skills within public institutions, local authorities and ministries. Leaders must set the example if NDS2 is to succeed,” he said.
The Second Republic has prioritised the implementation of economic blueprints, from the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP) to NDS1, which have contributed to macroeconomic stabilisation, including the containment of inflation to single-digit levels.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated that transparency, accountability and institutional integrity are vital to the successful implementation of NDS2.
“Unity, peace, security and the integrity of our national institutions remain the solid foundation upon which we must successfully implement NDS2. The strategy must entrench transparency and accountability, while our fight against corruption across all sectors will continue unabated,” the President said.
“Zimbabwe will continue to uphold its international commitments on human rights, peace and security, while fostering dialogue, national unity and the rule of law,” he added.
NDS2 is anchored on ten pillars that guide ministries, government departments and the private sector in delivering quick wins and long-term interventions aimed at meeting national development aspirations.
