Mnangagwa’s full address at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair

The domestic industry and business alike should not be spectators or mere commentators with regards the current economic agenda, but should instead be in the forefront of collaborating and partnering Government in exploiting the available opportunities

In the present drive to grow the economy, agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, infrastructure development, ICT and the financial services sectors are priority areas for my Government.

We, however, realise that this cannot be done in isolation, hence we have been on a rigorous investment promotion drive, through our re-engagement efforts to attract foreign direct investment under the “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” reality.

To date, we have received an overwhelming response from potential investors from various destinations. Firm investment commitments have been made and Government is committed to ensure the materialisation of those negotiations which are underway.

In the same vein, we continue to take bold steps to reform various State-owned enterprises and parastatals to ensure that they contribute to the inclusive growth of our economy by lowering the cost of doing business and enhancing overall business convenience.

Some of these institutions will be merged, disbanded or privatised. The merger of Zimbabwe Investment Authority (ZIA), the Zimbabwe Special Economic Zones Authority, the Joint Venture Unit and Zimtrade into a One-Stop Shop Centre is a case in point.

Zimbabwe is open for business, in every sector, in every sphere, we really mean business.

My administration acknowledges that actions speak louder than words, and as such, I therefore direct all public sector office bearers, in the various Government ministries, departments, agencies and State enterprises to facilitate both domestic and foreign investment and also ease the business environment, at all costs.

My Government will not tolerate any form of public sector lethargy, undue delays, bottlenecks, bribery and corruption.

Those that will be impediments in the economic growth agenda will fall by the wayside. Residual resistance of any kind is unacceptable.

The mentality of “them and us” must end. Sustainable economic growth will be achieved by us together: Government, the private sector and foreign investors alike.

In addition, I pledge that my administration will consistently engage with all stakeholders to further improve the business operating environment.

In this regard, may I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all business and industry organisations who regularly submit their sector recommendations for consideration by Government.

These have been noted and my administration will continue to ensure that Zimbabwe is a place where business feels safe and can grow and thrive. Let me equally reiterate the safety, security of investments and protection of private property rights.

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