Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE’s economy is projected to grow by five percent in 2026, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has announced, citing strong performances in agriculture, mining, construction, and retail, alongside a stable currency and favourable global commodity prices.
Speaking to ZBC News on Thursday, Professor Ncube, said the outlook remains positive across most productive sectors, which are expected to drive overall economic expansion.
“In 2026, the prognosis of the economy is on track as we expect the economy to grow by five percent. The agriculture and mining sectors are expected to lead overall growth, especially taking into account the viable global commodity prices. What is now needed is to redistribute the gains into the education, health and social programmes for the benefit of the citizenry,” he said.
The Minister emphasised the need for prudence in managing the economy to shield it from potential domestic and external shocks. He outlined that inflation is expected to fall to single digits by the end of the first quarter, supported by continued tight monetary policy.
“We expect that by the end of the first quarter, inflation will fall to single digits and that we stay the course of a tight monetary policy management. This means that we stay the course of a tight monetary policy system while balancing expenditure and revenue inflows. We will not intend to use the Reserve Bank overdraft, so this will further facilitate a more prudent monetary system. The positive real interest rates will be maintained so everything is in place for a stable macroeconomic position.”
Zimbabwe has now recorded consecutive positive growth rates, positioning it among the fastest-growing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Analysts say continued investment in productive sectors and prudent macroeconomic management will be key to sustaining growth and ensuring the benefits reach citizens.
