Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
VICE President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga says Zimbabwe is prioritising productivity, investment attraction and policy consistency as key pillars for sustainable economic growth.
He made the remarks during the International Business Conference held on the sidelines of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
The conference brought together captains of industry, government officials, investors and development partners to deliberate on strategies for economic transformation.
In his keynote address, Vice President Chiwenga said Government is committed to creating an enabling environment that rewards production and builds long-term investor confidence.
“It is an honour to address this distinguished gathering at the 2026 International Business Conference. I commend the National Economic Consultative Forum and the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Company for convening another important platform that brings together Government, business leaders, investors and development partners to shape practical pathways for economic growth and transformation. We are determined to create an economy that rewards productivity, attracts capital and promotes long-term confidence. In that regard, Government remains committed to policy consistency, fiscal discipline, the sanctity of contracts, protection of investment, transparent regulations and continuous improvement in the ease of doing business,” he said.
The Vice President also emphasised the need for value addition in the mining sector.
“Zimbabwe will no longer export its resources in raw form without deriving maximum value. The era of exporting raw resources without meaningful domestic benefit must give way to a new phase of in-country value addition, beneficiation, industrialisation and manufacturing,” he added.
Business leaders expressed optimism about the country’s growth prospects.
“The prospects of growth are really bright, so what is now required is for us as business leaders to do our best in producing for development and growth,” said Cimas Business Executive Mr Manatsa Gaka.
A representative from the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries said safeguarding the economy against internal and external shocks will be critical in sustaining the growth trajectory.
Meanwhile, Vice President Chiwenga toured exhibition stands at the ZITF, engaging exhibitors and assessing local production capacity.
“What I have seen is just above expectations, and this shows how determined our exhibitors are and how committed they are to high-quality goods. I have toured several stands, and what I have seen is just amazing,” he said.
This year’s ZITF has attracted more than 700 exhibitors, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s position as an emerging destination for trade, investment and industrial development.
