Story by Fungai Jachi
GOVERNMENT is modernising its legal framework through a new Merchant Shipping Act, designed to align with international standards and attract maritime commerce.
This was said by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Honourable Felix Mhona when he addressed the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Assembly on Monday at the IMO Headquarters in London.
Minister Mhona outlined Zimbabwe’s vision to shift from a ‘land-locked’ to a ‘land-linked’ nation.
“This paradigm shift leverages our strategic position to fully integrate into global supply chains. To anchor this vision, Zimbabwe is asserting its regional leadership through active participation in the Maritime Organisation for Eastern, Southern, and Northern Africa (MOESNA), working to build a stronger, more efficient African maritime network,” he said.
He added that taking part at the premier global forum directly advances the Ministry’s strategic objectives.
“It allows Zimbabwe to shape international maritime policy, advocate for the interests of land-linked nations, attract vital investment, and access cutting-edge knowledge in green shipping and digital technology, all essential for modernising our national transport infrastructure.
The engagement is a step toward realising the national vision of an Empowered and Prosperous Upper-Middle Income Society by 2030 as championed by His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa. It powerfully signals that Zimbabwe is open for business and ready to claim its rightful role in the global maritime economy,” he added.
The assembly is running from November 24 to December 3, and serves as a key platform for Zimbabwe to affirm its commitment to safe, secure, and sustainable global shipping.
