Staff Reporter
President Mnangagwa has lauded the country’s economic achievements under the Second Republic, emphasizing the central role that industrialization and modernization play in Zimbabwe’s pursuit of Vision 2030.
Speaking to delegates at the opening of ZANU PF’s 21st National People’s Conference currently underway in Bulawayo today, the President reiterated that the government’s efforts to build a modern, industrialized Zimbabwe are yielding positive results.
“Step by step, brick upon brick and stone upon stone, we are realizing the mission, aims, and objectives of our colossal Party, and consolidating the gains of our hard-won independence, national unity, and peace,” he remarked.
The President took the opportunity to highlight key sectors driving Zimbabwe’s economic growth, notably mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
According to President Mnangagwa, the mining sector has demonstrated resilience, with an 84% capacity utilization rate in 2024 and projected growth to 90% by 2025. The sector contributes 75% of the country’s exports and 18% of its GDP, positioning it as a key pillar of the nation’s economy.
“We have seen significant growth in the mining sector, especially from artisanal and small-scale miners. This has contributed to increased gold output and strengthened our foreign exchange reserves,” President Mnangagwa told the delegates.
He also mentioned the government’s ongoing review of incentives in the sector to ensure fair benefits for all players.
In agriculture, the President commended farmers and stakeholders for the bumper winter wheat harvest and progress in horticulture, underlining the significance of food security in the nation’s development.
President Mnangagwa stressed the importance of thorough preparations for the 2024/2025 summer cropping season, ensuring that inputs for the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme are distributed on time.
“Corruption and favouritism in this process should not happen,” he warned, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness.
Infrastructure development also featured prominently in President Mnangagwa’s speech, particularly the ongoing construction and maintenance of national roads.
He mentioned plans to upgrade key roads such as the Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls and Harare-Chirundu highways, which are vital for the country’s transport and trade.
President Mnangagwa reiterated his administration’s commitment to achieving Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into a prosperous and industrialized nation.
“ZANU PF is leading Zimbabwe, developing every province, district, ward, and village. We shall industrialize and modernize our motherland, ourselves,” he said, signalling the party’s resolve to spearhead the nation’s development.
The ZANU PF conference will officially close tomorrow with the announcement of the conference resolutions, which are expected to guide the party and government operations moving forward.
