Staff Reporter

Government has approved the roadmap for the formulation of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2), which will span 2026-2030. This was confirmed during a post-cabinet briefing by the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere.

The roadmap comes as NDS 1 (2021-2025) draws to a close, having achieved key milestones in fiscal consolidation, monetary policy reforms, and foreign exchange market liberalization.

Speaking at the briefing, Minister Muswere highlighted the importance of NDS 2 in driving Zimbabwe towards its Vision 2030 goal of becoming an upper-middle-income economy.

“Government remains committed to ensuring sustainable, inclusive growth and development through the formulation of NDS 2. This strategy will serve as the next cornerstone in modernizing our economy and promoting industrialization,” Minister Muswere said.

NDS 2 will build on the successes of NDS 1, while also introducing new strategies focused on innovation, industrialization, and adaptation to climate change.

“The plan will prioritize eradicating poverty and promoting sustainable livelihoods, especially for vulnerable groups. We are looking to improve the resilience of our economy while addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring that no one is left behind,” the minister added.

The process of developing the NDS 2 blueprint is set to take 18 months and will involve comprehensive stakeholder consultations.

“The Economic Census launched in May 2024 will play a key role in shaping the strategy. By November 2024, national priorities will be identified, which will form the pillars for NDS 2. Thematic working groups and strategy formulation are expected to begin in February 2025, followed by the evaluation of NDS 1 between April and June 2025,” Minister Muswere said

Meanwhile, the final draft of NDS 2 is expected to be presented to the cabinet by November 2025, with implementation starting soon after. The strategy is anticipated to ensure continued progress toward the government’s overarching development goals.