By Regina Pasipanodya As Zimbabwe begins the next phase of its national development, the shift from the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) to NDS2 has generated both hope and doubt. Some critics see it as just political talk, another slogan in a long series of policy announcements. However, viewing this transition solely as surface-level rhetoric overlooks a deeper story unfolding in our country: a story of reform, resilience, and results. NDS2 is not a reset. It is a relay. The baton being passed represents continuity, delivery, and deeper transformation. Launched in 2021, NDS1 was never intended to be the finish line. It served as the framework for a new Zimbabwean economy built on stability, productivity, and inclusive growth. In the face of global challenges, from the COVID-19 pandemic to climate-induced droughts, NDS1 maintained stability. It restored macroeconomic stability, controlled inflation, and laid the foundation for infrastructure improvement. Under NDS1, we achieved real progress: – Over 400 km of the Harare-Beitbridge highway were rehabilitated. – The Pfumvudza/Intwasa program expanded to over 2.5 million households, improving food security. – The Victoria Falls Stock Exchange launched, drawing foreign investment. – Digitization of public services advanced, boosting efficiency and transparency. These are not just slogans. They are milestones, setting the stage for what comes next. If NDS1 focused on stabilization and reform, NDS2 emphasizes acceleration and delivery. This phase is where policy begins to impact the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans in tangible ways. President Mnangagwa has made it clear that NDS2 must focus on implementation.It must be about results. It must ensure that no Zimbabwean is left behind as we strive toward Vision 2030.NDS2 prioritizes: – Industrialization and value addition: From lithium to agriculture, Zimbabwe needs to move from exporting raw materials to exporting finished products. – Job creation and youth empowerment: With over 60% of the population under 35, NDS2 focuses on skills development, innovation hubs, and entrepreneurship. – Social services and infrastructure: Access to clean water, reliable electricity, quality healthcare, and modern schools are rights, not luxuries. – Climate resilience and sustainability: From solar energy to smart agriculture, NDS2 embraces green growth. This is not political rhetoric. It is a policy roadmap based on data, timelines, and accountability. One of the most overlooked strengths of the NDS framework is its predictability. In a region often characterized by policy reversals and short-term thinking, Zimbabwe shows that development is a marathon, not a sprint. By building on the successes of NDS1, NDS2 avoids the pitfall of “starting over.” It allows for adjustments without losing direction.It sends a clear message to investors, development partners, and citizens: Zimbabwe is committed to its future. This continuity is crucial for long-term projects, whether it’s the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, the Beitbridge Border Post modernization, or rural industrialization efforts. These initiatives need consistency, not chaos.For NDS2 to succeed, it must resonate—not just be read. It has to reach the homes, clinics, and classrooms of everyday Zimbabweans. This involves:- Localizing development: Ward development committees, traditional leaders, and local councils must be empowered to connect NDS2 goals with community needs. -Communicating progress: Citizens should see progress reports, not just promises. They need to know what is being done, where, and by whom. – Celebrating success stories: From a young woman running a solar-powered irrigation scheme in Mutoko to a youth cooperative exporting dried mangoes from Chipinge—these highlight the essence of NDS2. Development becomes real when it improves lives. The success of NDS2 cannot rest on the government alone.It requires everyone working together: -Private sector: To invest, innovate, and create jobs. – Civil society: To monitor, engage, and amplify citizen voices. – Media: To inform, inspire, and hold all parties accountable. – Diaspora: To bring back skills, capital, and ideas. This isn’t about blind support.It’s about constructive patriotism. It’s about believing that Zimbabwe’s story is still being written—and that we all hold the pen. Vision 2030 is not just a date; it is a goal. Post navigation Why NDS2 Is Zimbabwe’s Moment to Deliver