Story by Tichaona Kurewa
ZIMBABWE is fast becoming a hub for investments, with the United States attesting to the country’s economic potential.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing three-day United States Exchange Alumni Summit in Victoria Falls, American Chamber of Commerce in Zimbabwe, James Oliver attributed the coming in of the new dispensation in the Southern African country as the turning point.
“I think the current administration has made it much more conducive to do business here. I’ll give you an example, ZIDA has been a wonderful asset for us as we began to get started, helping us navigate the special economic zones, even Vic Falls through the special opportunities that are here. So organisations like ZIDA, have made the investment process much easier. I can tell you the climate has changed to where people are interested here and not just from a mining perspective and some of the traditional businesses.”
Oliver’s sentiments were also echoed by the US Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Her Excellency Pamela Tremont who is prioritising attracting more investment into Harare.
She said, “Since I got here, I’ve been focused on improving the investment climate. Everybody I meet says, why are there not more American companies here? Why aren’t people investing in all these opportunities? And so, as soon as I hit the ground, I immediately started wondering that myself. Why is that? And of course, improving the investment climate to attract more, not just U.S. businesses, but businesses from around the world.”
With its rich natural resources, improving business climate, and strategic location, Zimbabwe is poised to become a hub for investors.
Over 200 delegates from more than 10 countries in the Southern African region are attending the US Exchange Alumni Summit.
During the summit, alumni from various US exchange programmes will share their success stories in business and community development, highlighting the positive impact of their participation in these initiatives.
As leaders of their respective alumni associations, panelists will showcase how collaboration, innovation, and alumni networking opportunities have enhanced their work and contributed to regional development.
The summit promises to be a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and exploring new opportunities for growth and cooperation in the region.
