Minister Ndhlovu challenges business community

STAFF WRITER

In a bold Christmas message, Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu says business leaders and stakeholders should capitalise on the economic stability achieved under the Second Republic’s policies.

He emphasized the importance of local production and consumer support for Zimbabwean-made products as a cornerstone for job creation and accelerated economic growth in 2025.

Minister Ndlovu highlighted that Zimbabwe’s recent macroeconomic stability offers a unique opportunity to overcome industrial challenges and enhance the country’s economic trajectory.

“The new year presents an opportunity to address challenges in industrial growth while optimizing the strong macro-economic stability we have experienced in recent months to drive industrial growth forward,” he said.

Ndlovu called for greater support for the Buy Zimbabwe initiative and local content strategies, urging citizens to prioritize locally manufactured goods to sustain domestic industries and create employment opportunities.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating market distortions, particularly smuggling and counterfeit goods, through the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Business Malpractice. These efforts aim to protect consumers while ensuring a fair business environment.

Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe Chairman,Tafadzwa Musarara, provided an encouraging update on the milling sector’s performance.

Despite a challenging year marked by drought and heavy reliance on grain imports, the sector supplied grain-based products exceeding demand by 38.9%. This surplus has stabilized prices, ensuring accessibility across formal and informal markets.

Musarara attributed the sector’s success to strategic partnerships and government policies, including support for contract farming and alternative sourcing strategies.

“The Government’s private sector-led approach aligns with international best practices, allowing us to adapt effectively to challenges,” he said.

The government has also made strides in addressing power shortages through partnerships with private investors in coal-powered electricity generation. These initiatives, expected to be completed by the end of 2025, will significantly boost energy availability for manufacturing and industrial growth.

Additionally, efforts to stabilize the foreign exchange market have strengthened the local currency, the Zimbabwean dollar (ZiG), creating a more predictable environment for businesses.

The government recently launched the Zimbabwe Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan 2024–2025. This initiative aims to enhance competitiveness, reduce the cost of doing business, and strengthen links between large corporations and SMEs. It forms part of Zimbabwe’s broader vision to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030.

Minister Ndlovu reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to collaboration with the private sector, urging stakeholders to engage actively and drive the nation’s industrial transformation.

“The road ahead is challenging but full of opportunity,” he said.

“Together, we can build a resilient, sustainable, and thriving economy.”