Staff Reporter

Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, has announced that the much-anticipated 2025 National Budget will be unveiled this Thursday, November 28.

Speaking to the media in Harare yesterday, Prof. Ncube emphasized that the budget will focus on building economic resilience and empowering marginalized communities, in line with the government’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).

“This budget is exciting and forward-looking. It is centered on empowering youth, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. We are building resilience that strengthens the economy and the livelihoods of our people while deepening structural transformation,” Minister Ncube said.

The presentation comes at a time of heightened anticipation as Zimbabwe navigates challenges posed by a global economic slowdown and the impact of El Niño-induced droughts.
Despite these obstacles, Prof. Ncube remained optimistic, projecting a 6 percent economic growth in 2025, supported by recovery in agriculture and enhanced resilience measures.

Prof. Ncube highlighted several key areas the budget will address, including investments in agriculture, environmental protection, and infrastructure development.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy. The 2025 budget will prioritize water infrastructure and initiatives that build resilience against climate change,” he noted.

Government also plans to accelerate the shift towards local currency dominance, with a growing emphasis on taxes paid in the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, which replaced the Zimbabwe dollar earlier this year.
Treasury’s focus on stabilizing domestic pricing and curbing inflationary pressures is expected to continue into 2025, creating a more predictable economic environment for businesses and households.

Additionally, the budget will explore innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds, social bonds, and diaspora bonds, which are expected to be floated on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange and Victoria Falls Stock Exchange.
Economists have shared their expectations ahead of the budget presentation, urging the government to strike a balance between stimulating economic growth and ensuring fiscal discipline.

Dr. Promise Chakabva, emphasized the need for inclusive growth.
“This budget must address the widening inequality gap. Support for SMEs, particularly in the informal sector, is critical for job creation and poverty reduction,” Chakabva said.

Financial analyst Tatenda Muchenje highlighted the importance of expanding the tax base without overburdening citizens.
“The inclusion of cross-border online transactions and SMEs in the tax net is a welcome move. However, the government must ensure that these measures are implemented in a way that fosters compliance rather than stifling economic activity,” Muchenje explained.

As Zimbabweans await the budget presentation, there is cautious optimism about its potential to lay the groundwork for economic recovery and social empowerment.
With its focus on resilience, structural transformation, and inclusive growth, the 2025 National Budget could set the tone for continued progress under NDS1 and beyond.
The nation will be watching closely on Thursday as the government unveils its plans to address the economic and social priorities of the day.