BY DR MASIMBA MAVAZA

The ruling ZANU PF party has announced plans to develop the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS-2), which will guide the country’s development programs from 2026 to 2030. The strategy aims to drive sustainable economic development, promote industrialization, and enhance the country’s resilience to climate change.

Keyy Priority Areas:

– Macro-Economic Stability and Financial Sector Deepening

– Inclusive Economic Growth and Structural Transformation

– Infrastructure Development and Housing

– Food Security

Economic Progress:

Zimbabwe’s economy has made significant strides under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, with the country now boasting the fifth-largest economy in Southern Africa, with a GDP of US$44.4 billion.

The introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency has also brought stability to the economy.

Call to Action:

The party’s Secretary for Economic Affairs, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Engelbert Rugeje, has called for continued support for the ZiG and for the party to lead in promoting its use and acceptance.

He emphasized the importance of consolidating gains made in macroeconomic stability and promoting economic growth.

2026 National Budget:

The government will focus on preparations for the 2026 National Budget, which must strike a balance between sustainable economic growth, infrastructural development, and improved livelihoods.

The budget will aim to promote the ease of doing business and attract more domestic and foreign investment into the country.

Economic Growth:

The revised GDP figures position Zimbabwe as the fifth-largest economy in the region, behind South Africa, Angola, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This growth is attributed to the inclusion of previously unrecorded economic activities, especially in the informal sector and newly established businesses.