President Mnangagwa’s Regulatory Reforms Signal a New Era of Business Confidence

By Regina Pasipanodya

During the State of the Nation Address today, President Emmerson Mnangagwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic transformation by announcing a review of licenses, permits, fees, and regulatory requirements across all sectors.

“My Government has reviewed licenses, permits, levies, and fees as well as the multiple regulatory requirements across all sectors to improve the country’s ease of doing business, reduce costs, and increase the competitiveness of the local industry,” said His Excellency.

This bold move marks a strategic shift in Zimbabwe’s development path.

For years, the business community has called for simpler processes, lower costs, and clearer compliance guidelines.

The President’s directive to amend the relevant Statutory Instruments and laws shows that the government is listening, responding, and acting decisively.

“The respective Statutory Instruments and laws will be amended accordingly,” President Mnangagwa promised.

A Government That Listens, A Nation That Moves

This reform is rooted in the Second Republic’s guiding philosophy: “Zimbabwe is open for business.”

As the President reaffirms the goal to reduce bureaucratic delays and align regulatory frameworks, the government is creating a more competitive, investor-friendly environment. This environment will empower local industry and attract global partnerships.

The review will restore confidence in Zimbabwe’s institutions, ensuring that every permit issued and every fee charged has a purpose aligned with national growth.

It shows leadership that understands the economy’s needs and is willing to adapt.

Empowering Local Industry, Protecting National Interests

President Mnangagwa’s reforms come at a crucial time as Zimbabwe aims for regional integration and global competitiveness.

The government is supporting local manufacturers, SMEs, and youth-led businesses so they can succeed without being hindered by outdated or overlapping regulations.

This is a win for the informal sector, which has long been a key part of community resilience.

It is also a win for formal businesses looking for predictability and fairness.

The reforms will help cut duplication, remove unnecessary fees, and promote transparency in licensing. This will allow Zimbabwean entrepreneurs to focus on innovation rather than red tape.

Strategic Leadership in Action

The President’s announcement builds on a series of reforms that have already begun to change Zimbabwe’s economic landscape.

From launching ZiG to digitizing public services, the Second Republic continues to show strategic thinking and policy alignment.

As the relevant ministries start the process of amending statutory instruments, stakeholders across sectors must come together to support this vision.

Collaboration, consultation, and constructive feedback will be crucial in ensuring that the reforms are implemented effectively and maintained.

A Call to Celebrate and Support Reform

Zimbabweans should recognize that regulatory reform reflects a government that is responsive, progressive, and committed to inclusive development.

Citizens, business leaders, and civil society all have a role to play in supporting these changes and ensuring they provide real benefits.

President Mnangagwa has once again shown that leadership is about listening, adjusting, and delivering.

With these reforms, Zimbabwe is firmly on the path to prosperity.