The Sunday Mail
Dr Tinashe Eric Muzamhindo
THE recently held conference in Nyanga, hosted by the Zimbabwe Institute of Strategic Thinking (ZIST), was a resounding success.
This conference brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss pressing issues and strategically plan for the future.
What made this conference truly unique was the unanimous support for Vision 2030, a bold vision for Zimbabwe’s economic transformation.
The meeting was attended by Government officials, business leaders, representatives of civil society organisations and international partners, showcasing the broad-based support for Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
Discussions at the conference focused on key sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and infrastructure development, highlighting the comprehensive approach needed for economic transformation.
The commitment shown by stakeholders to work together towards Vision 2030 is a testament to the collective determination to drive positive change in Zimbabwe.
The President’s vision
President Mnangagwa has proven to be a visionary leader with his clear and ambitious vision for Zimbabwe’s future.
In laying out Vision 2030, he has set a roadmap for economic transformation and development. The vision encompasses not only economic growth but also social development and environmental sustainability.
President Mnangagwa has emphasised the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards a prosperous Zimbabwe. Under his leadership, the Government has implemented reforms to create an enabling environment for businesses, attract investment and promote job creation.
These efforts have already started yielding positive results, with increased investor confidence and a steady improvement in the ease of doing business rankings.
NDS1 feeds into the economy
The National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) is a key component of Zimbabwe’s economic transformation agenda. This comprehensive strategy outlines Government’s priorities and targets for the period 2021-2025.
NDS1 focuses on key sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and infrastructure development.
The strategy recognises that these sectors have the potential to drive economic growth, create employment and generate foreign exchange earnings.
The Government has allocated significant resources to support the implementation of NDS1, including budgetary provisions and the establishment of specialised task forces.
The strategy also emphasises the importance of public-private partnerships to leverage on resources and expertise for maximum impact.
Early successes in implementing NDS1 can already be seen, such as increased agricultural productivity, growth in the mining sector, and the expansion of tourism infrastructure.
Growth transformative strategy
To achieve the ambitious goals of Vision 2030, Zimbabwe needs a growth transformative strategy.
This strategy should focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, attracting foreign direct investment, and promoting innovation and technology adoption.
The Government has recognised the need to address bottlenecks and barriers to business growth, such as cumbersome regulations and limited access to finance.
Efforts are underway to streamline bureaucratic processes, improve the ease of doing business, and provide targeted support to small and medium enterprises.
Government has also prioritised investment in research and development, with the aim of fostering innovation and technological advancements across sectors.
By adopting a growth transformative strategy, Zimbabwe can position itself as a competitive player in the global market and attract sustainable investment for long-term economic development.
Budget as an economic recovery plan
The 2024 National Budget that was recently presented by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube serves as an economic recovery plan for Zimbabwe.
The budget includes measures to address the challenges faced by ordinary Zimbabweans, such as inflation and eroded incomes.
Minister Ncube proposed raising taxes and tax-free bonus thresholds to provide much-needed relief to the citizens.
The budget, themed “Consolidating Economic Transformation”, builds on the socio-economic achievements of the past five years and seeks to lay a solid foundation for further development and growth.
The budget also includes provisions for infrastructure development, social welfare programmes and targeted support for key sectors.
By striking a balance between fiscal discipline and targeted spending, Government aims to stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and improve the living standards of Zimbabweans.
Pillars of the economy
To achieve sustainable economic transformation, Zimbabwe needs to focus on strengthening the pillars of its economy.
Agriculture, as the backbone of the economy, has immense potential for growth and job creation.
Government has implemented initiatives to support farmers — including the provision of inputs, extension services and market linkages.
In the mining sector, Zimbabwe is rich in mineral resources — including gold, platinum, diamonds and coal.
Government has taken steps to attract investment in the sector, such as revising mining laws and improving transparency in the licensing process.
Manufacturing and tourism sectors have also shown promising growth, with increased investment and export earnings.
The services sector — including finance, telecommunications and logistics — plays a crucial role in supporting other industries and facilitating economic activities.
By strengthening these pillars, Zimbabwe can diversify its economy, reduce reliance on a single sector, and create a resilient and sustainable economic base.
Strategy as an anchor
A well-defined strategy is crucial for anchoring Zimbabwe’s economic transformation efforts.
This strategy should outline clear objectives, action plans and timelines for implementation.
It should also address challenges such as corruption, bureaucracy, and policy inconsistencies.
Government has developed a comprehensive roadmap, including sector-specific strategies and policy frameworks, to guide the implementation of Vision 2030.
These strategies provide a blueprint for action, detailing the steps needed to achieve the desired outcomes.
Government has also established monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress and ensure accountability.
By having a solid strategy in place, Zimbabwe can ensure that its economic transformation is guided by evidence-based decision making and that efforts are coordinated across different sectors and stakeholders.
Debt clearance strategy
Zimbabwe’s debt burden has been a significant obstacle to its economic transformation.
To address this issue, Government needs to develop a comprehensive debt clearance strategy.
This strategy should include measures to reduce debt levels, negotiate favourable terms with creditors and attract investment to generate revenue for debt servicing.
Government has already taken steps to engage with international financial institutions and bilateral partners to restructure its debt.
Efforts are also being made to improve revenue collection and enhance fiscal discipline to ensure resources are used efficiently.
By addressing the debt issue, Zimbabwe can create fiscal space and redirect resources towards productive sectors that can drive economic growth and improve the well-being of its citizens.
Infrastructure development plan
Infrastructure development plays a crucial role in economic transformation.
Zimbabwe needs to invest in modern and efficient infrastructure — including roads, railways, ports, energy and telecommunications.
Government has recognised the importance of infrastructure and has prioritised it in its development agenda.
Significant investments have been made in road rehabilitation and expansion, with major projects underway to improve connectivity within the country and with neighbouring countries.
In the energy sector, efforts are being made to diversify the energy mix and increase access to clean and reliable power.
Government has also embarked on initiatives to improve internet connectivity and digital infrastructure, recognising the role of technology in driving economic growth and innovation.
By investing in infrastructure, Zimbabwe can enhance its competitiveness, attract investment and create an environment conducive to economic activities.
Drivers of economic growth
To achieve sustainable economic growth, Zimbabwe needs to focus on key drivers of growth.
Human capital development is crucial, as a skilled and educated workforce is essential for driving economic activities and innovation.
Government has prioritised investment in education and skills development, with initiatives to improve access to quality education, vocational training, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Innovation and technology adoption can enhance productivity and competitiveness.
Government has established innovation hubs and technology centres to support research and development, promote entrepreneurship and encourage the adoption of new technologies.
Entrepreneurship, supported by a conducive business environment, can create jobs, foster economic diversification and drive innovation.
Government has implemented various initiatives to support entrepreneurs — including access to finance, business development services and mentorship programmes.
Institutional economic framework
A strong institutional framework is essential for effective economic transformation.
Zimbabwe needs to strengthen its institutions — including regulatory bodies, the Judiciary and law-enforcement agencies.
Transparent and accountable governance is crucial for attracting investment, ensuring fair competition and protection of property rights.
Government has taken steps to improve governance and strengthen institutions — including reforms in the public sector, the
Judiciary and anti-corruption efforts.
Efforts are also being made to streamline regulatory processes and reduce bureaucracy, creating a business-friendly environment.
By establishing a robust institutional framework, Zimbabwe can create an environment that fosters trust, stability and sustainable economic growth.
Structured development plan
To ensure the successful attainment of Vision 2030, Zimbabwe needs a structured development plan.
This plan should outline specific targets, milestones and monitoring mechanisms.
It should also identify potential risks and challenges, and propose mitigation strategies.
Government has developed a comprehensive implementation plan for Vision 2030, with clear targets and timelines for each sector.
The plan includes regular monitoring and evaluation to track progress and identify areas that require adjustment or additional support.
By having a well-structured development plan, Zimbabwe can ensure that efforts are coordinated, resources are allocated efficiently and the country stays on track towards achieving its economic transformation goals.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe has the potential to become a great nation if its people come together and work towards a common vision.
The success of the Nyanga conference and the unanimous support for Vision 2030 demonstrate the willingness of stakeholders to drive economic transformation.
By focusing on key areas such as the President’s vision, NDS1, growth transformative strategy, the budget as an economic recovery plan, pillars of the economy, infrastructure development, drivers of economic growth, institutional economic framework, debt clearance strategy and a structured development plan, Zimbabwe can pave the way for a prosperous future.
With determination, collaboration and effective implementation, Zimbabwe can achieve Vision 2030 and become a shining example of economic transformation.
The journey towards Vision 2030 will require resilience, adaptability and continuous learning from both Government and the people.
By embracing a shared vision and working together, Zimbabwe can overcome challenges and unlock its full potential, transforming into a prosperous and inclusive nation.
*Dr Tinashe Eric Muzamhindo is head of the Zimbabwe Institute of Strategic Thinking. Contact: [email protected]
