Cabinet pushes reforms as projects gather pace

We  publish here the  29th post- Cabinet media briefing presented by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, in Harare yesterday.

Following the successful completion of the comprehensive review of licences, permits, levies and fees across 13 priority sectors and a Mop-Up Review over the period August 2025 to August 2026, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Honourable Mthuli Ncube, presented the Implementation Progress Report, together with the review of e-hailing transport services, which were both approved by Cabinet.

The sectors that were covered under the reviews comprised Agriculture; Manufacturing; Tourism; Transport; Wholesale and Retail; Energy; Broadcasting; Telecommunications; Construction; Banking and Financial Services; Health; and Mining.

The review of approved licences, permits, levies and fees is aimed at reducing the cost and complexity of doing business, strengthening the competitiveness of the economy, improving public service delivery and advancing Government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

The monitoring and evaluation process has revealed that operationalisation of the approved licences, permits, levies and fees by Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies is at various levels of implementation, with a total of 291 having been fully implemented to date. Notable progress includes the following highlights:

1. Operationalisation of a raft of approved fees by the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) through Statutory Instrument Number 17 of 2026;
2. Implementation of various approved fees by the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) through Statutory Instrument Number 9 of 2026;

iii. Implementation of 62 approved fees out of 201 by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works through Statutory Instruments Number 41 and 107 of 2026. The instruments include the removal of the Livestock Movement Clearance fees, the Fuel Storage Registration Certificate, the Cattle levy and the Fish Monger licences;

1. Implementation of reviewed bank charges is at different levels across local Banks;
2. Operationalisation of Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe financial surveillance and exchange controls are being implemented; and
3. Regulatory registration fees by the Securities Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe (SECZ) and the Insurance and Pensions Commission of Zimbabwe (IPEC) are already being implemented.

Cabinet is assuring citizens that the major obstacles being faced in the implementation of outstanding reviews have been identified and are being resolved.

Cabinet also notes with satisfaction that the ongoing implementation of the Ease of Doing Business Reforms is being acknowledged within the region and beyond.

One such example is the removal of Zimbabwe from the list of fragile countries by the World Bank.

Regarding the Review of e-Hailing Transport services comprising platforms such as Bolt, In-Drive, Tap & Go, GoFaster, KOSE and others, Cabinet notes that they are providing convenient, affordable and more dignified services to the public as well as employment opportunities especially for the youths. However, the sub-sector has faced regulatory challenges that are undermining the ease of doing business.

Accordingly, and following consultations with players and regulatory authorities, Cabinet has approved Interim Transitional Measures, entailing observance of a 5-month moratorium to enable a thorough review of the e-hailing transport services pending, among other measures, the development of a Self-Regulating Framework guiding drivers and ensuring passenger safety by the e-hailing providers, operators and drivers; and initiation of registering the e-hailing transport businesses with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority while already-registered operators apply for tax registration.

Cabinet further approved that the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development develops e-hailing transport regulations based on consultations and international best practices. Ultimately, the regulations should promote the provision of safe, secure, convenient and affordable transport services in line with the aspirations of the National Development Strategy 2.

Overall, Government is pleased that the successful implementation of Cabinet-approved licences, permits, levies and fees is being acknowledged locally, regionally and beyond. Hindrances to implementation will continue to be addressed expeditiously so that the ease-of-doing business reforms are not undermined.

2.0 MID-CYCLE REPORT ON PRIORITY PROJECTS FOR THE SECOND 100-DAY CYCLE OF 2026

As the Second Republic accelerates implementation of programmes and projects in its quest to meet Vision 2030 targets, the Minister of State for National Security, Honourable Lovemore Matuke, presented the Mid-Cycle Report of the Priority

Projects for the Second 100-Day Cycle of 2026, which was adopted by Cabinet.

The Report, which assesses implementation as at July 13th, 2026, marking day 50 of the Second Cycle, also identifies emerging constraints and measures to accelerate delivery of the Rapid Results Initiatives/Priority Projects, service delivery, infrastructure development, economic transformation and institutional reform. The assessment collected and used evidence from pertinent sources, and combined documentary review, performance analysis and field-level validation to establish the status of implementation and identify factors affecting project delivery.

The nation is advised that 191 out of the 203 approved priority projects are being implemented, with the funds required to commence the remaining 12 now at advanced stages of being mobilised for release. A total of 21 projects are set for commissioning. Going forward, coordination among key project implementers will be strengthened in order to ensure that set targets and deadlines are met.

3.0 IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO ASSIST COMMUNITIES AFFECTED BY THE LAKE KARIBA DISASTER

Cabinet received and adopted the immediate measures to assist communities affected by the Lake Kariba ferry disaster as presented by Honourable Daniel Garwe, Minister of Local Government and Public Works on behalf of Honourable Vice President Col. (Rtd.) Dr Kembo Mohadi as Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Social Development.

The key measures outlined are primarily focusing on the following four main areas: Humanitarian Relief and Psychosocial Support; Recovery and Resilience Building; Transport and Infrastructure Development; and Community Training in Disaster Risk Reduction.

Efforts under humanitarian relief and psychosocial support include deploying skilled personnel on mental health support, providing emergency supplies, protecting children, and promoting education. Resilience initiatives are focusing on expanding economic opportunities, vocational training, and rebuilding community  assets. Infrastructure plans are emphasising  road repairs, vessel replacement, establishing affordable ferry services, and improving early warning systems with weather stations, drones and communication tools. A comprehensive emergency response plan has been prioritised, alongside improving community amenities and access to water and sanitation.

Training programmes in water safety, first aid and disaster preparedness have also been prioritised, while timely disbursement of the National Civil Protection Fund, and capacity building through collaboration with educational institutions, are being emphasised.

4.0 2026/2027 SEASONAL RAINFALL OUTLOOK

Cabinet was updated on the 2026/2027 Seasonal Rainfall Outlook by the Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife, Hon. Evelyn Ndlovu.

The nation is informed that the National Climate Outlook for the 2026/2027 rainfall season covers the period October 2026 to March 2027, which was produced following the consensus regional climate outlook issued in Swakopmund, Namibia during the Thirty-Third Southern African Regional Climate Outlook Forum held from August 25 to 28, 2026. The 2026/2027 rainfall season is expected to be influenced by a very strong El Nino which increases the likelihood of a below to normal rainfall season.

The 2026/2027 National Rainfall Outlook is presented for two segments comprising October to December 2026, and January to March 2027. The cumulative rainfall outlook for October to December 2026 indicates an increased likelihood of below to normal rainfall. Local variations cannot be ruled out, hence the need to exercise alertness as the El Nino phenomenon develops.

Accordingly, and despite the drier-than-normal conditions expected across the country, some districts in Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces stand a chance of receiving near normal rainfall in December.

The cumulative rainfall outlook for January to March 2027 indicates an increased likelihood of below normal to normal rainfall over the northern and eastern parts of the country. The outlook indicates continued dryness for the three months, with less rainfall compared to long-term averages.

The southern and western parts of the country are expected to receive normal to below-normal rainfall during the January to March 2027 period.

The cumulative rainfall is expected to be in the normal range that is comparable to the long-term averages. Generally, the rainfall season will be erratic in space and time with frequent dry spells, which may be extended in some months and feature warmer-than-normal temperatures.

Due to increased likelihood of reduced rainfall, Ministries, Departments, Agencies and stakeholders are encouraged to strengthen contingency planning in order to mitigate potential humanitarian and socio-economic impacts.

There is need to intensify water harvesting and conservation programmes. Detailed information on the 2026/2027 Summer Season will be provided by the Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe from time to time.

5.0 REPORT ON THE 116TH ZIMBABWE AGRICULTURAL SHOW

Cabinet expressed satisfaction with the successful holding of the just-ended 2026 edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show, which was held from August 24 – 29, 2026 as presented by the Minister of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development, Honourable Anxious Jongwe Masuka.

Held under the theme “Powering Growth:  Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge”, the event showcased agricultural produce, tobacco, cotton, livestock and commercial exhibitions, as per the following highlights:

1. the estimated attendance was 208 000 people, compared to 198 182 people in 2025;
2. the total space uptake for 2026 reached 89 000 square metres, which was equal to the target;

iii. the entries in the Agri-produce section increased to 600, from 524 entries in 2025;

1. a total of 249 tobacco entries were recorded in 2026, compared to 121 in 2025, representing a 105 percent increase;
2. the cotton section featured 50 entries, compared to the 30 recorded in 2025;
3. the entries in the livestock section increased in the following sub-categories: beef, 41 percent; goats, 33,9 percent; sheep, 13,39 percent; pigs, 7,14 percent; rabbits 13,39 percent; and poultry, 146,43 percent;

vii. commercial exhibitors increased from 613 in 2025 to 640 in 2026, reflecting growth by 4,2 percent; and

viii. international exhibitors drawn from 9 countries reached 13, compared to the 11 who participated in 2025.

The Show successfully connected stakeholders across the agricultural value-chain, promoted innovation-driven production, strengthened market systems and supported investments in agriculture. The Show also provided a platform for knowledge sharing, technology transfer and business linkages, thereby contributing to broader economic development.

6.0 UPDATE ON PREPARATIONS FOR THE FORTHCOMING 2026 SANGANAI/HLANGANANI DZIMBAHWE WORLD TOURISM EXPO

Cabinet received an update on Preparations for the 19th Edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo 2026 as presented by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbra Rwodzi.

In keeping with the national devolution agenda, the 2026 edition will be held at Gymakhana Events and Conference Centre in Masvingo City, Masvingo Province from 9th  to 12th  September, 2026. The decision decentralises tourism benefits and strengthens the visibility and inclusivity of provincial tourism benefits.

The legacy infrastructure includes the refurbishment of Masvingo Airport; the construction of a restaurant, offices and ablution facilities; the development of sports fields; and improvement of the associated road network.

Meanwhile, a 1,4-kilometre road stretch leading to the venue, as well as the airport access road have been refurbished through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, thereby further enhancing ease of access to the venue.

To date, 385 companies from 15 countries including Botswana, Ghana, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania and Indonesia, among others, have confirmed their participation.

A total of 153 buyers comprising 125 international and 28 local buyers have similarly confirmed their participation. The international buyers represent key source markets including China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, the United States of America, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Indonesia, Bangladesh, South Africa and other African markets.

A number of programmes and activities have been lined up, as follows: September Sports Tourism Carnival; the Gastronomy and Music Show Carnival; Gastronomy Masterclass; Events Planners Masterclass; the Chief Executive Officers Roundtable; Welcome Cocktail; Tourism Investment Forum; Scholastica Conference; Back-to-Back Buyer’s Session; and Sanganani Awards Ceremony. The Official Opening ceremony will be held on 9th September, 2026.

7.0 REPORT ON HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT’S VISIT TO ZAMBIA FOR THE INAUGURATION OF THE PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA, MR H. HICHILEMA: LUSAKA, ZAMBIA: SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

Cabinet received and noted the Report on the Visit to Zambia by His Excellency the President for the Inauguration of the President-Elect, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, which was presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

His Excellency the President, Cde Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa witnessed the inauguration of His Excellency, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, as the President of Zambia following his re-election for a Second Term. The visit was undertaken within the framework of fostering regional and Pan-African cultural, economic and political cooperation and integration.

His Excellency the President joined other high-level foreign dignitaries from the region, Africa, China and the United States of America during the Ceremony, which was a reflection of a strong regional and international endorsement of Zambia’s democratic transition.

In a well-received address, His Excellency the President expressed confidence that the two neighbouring countries would continue working together to broaden bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of their peoples. He also encouraged Zambians to remain united and peaceful.

8.0 REPORT ON HIS EXCELLENCY’S VISIT TO MOZAMBIQUE FOR THE GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR THE BEIRA-FERUKA PIPELINE EXPANSION PROJECT: NHAMATANDA CENTRE BEIRA, SOFALA PROVINCE: 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026

Cabinet received a Report on His Excellency the President’s visit to Mozambique on September 2nd, 2026, as presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Professor Amon Murwira.

His Excellency the President, Cde Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa undertook the visit at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Mozambique, His Excellency Daniel Francisco Chapo. The visit centred on the foundation stone-laying for the Beira-Feruka pipeline expansion project. The objectives of the visit included reaffirming and strengthening the fraternal ties and strategic partnership between Zimbabwe and Mozambique; consolidating economic, trade and logistics cooperation; and demonstrating a shared commitment to developing regional energy infrastructure. The visit also aimed to reinforce Zimbabwe’s role as a vital regional logistics hub.

During the engagement, the two leaders highlighted the project’s importance for regional energy security, economic growth and job creation. This visit, following the 2025 Bilateral Commission, reaffirmed the strong political  relationship between the two nations and underscored a mutual commitment to expanding trade, industrial development and Pan-African progress through enhanced collaboration.

9.0 REPORT ON THE 21ST EXTRAORDINARY SUMMIT OF THE AFRICAN UNION HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT ON STRENGTHENING MECHANISMS FOR CONFLICT PREVENTION AND RESOLUTION IN AFRICA: LUANDA, ANGOLA: AUGUST 30, 2026

Cabinet received and adopted the Report by Honourable Vice President Gen (Rtd.) Dr Constantino Chiwenga on the 21st Extraordinary Summit of the African Union Heads of State and Government on Strengthening Mechanisms for Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa, which was held in Luanda, Angola on August 30, 2026.

The objective of the Summit, which was attended by 49 Member States and chaired by the President of Burundi, His Excellency Evariste Ndaishimiye, was to strengthen the Africa Union’s approach to conflict prevention and resolution.

The African Union Decision 949 of February 2026 is a response to a “new era of insecurity across Africa. The Summit adopted the Decision on Strengthening Mechanisms for Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa and the Luanda Action Plan, with its Implementation Matrix.

The Plan provides a consolidated, holistic framework to strengthen conflict prevention, promote inclusive governance and build sustainable socio-economic resilience for peace and stability.

The Honourable Vice President also noted the readiness of the Government of Angola to discuss investment and cooperation on the Lobito Refinery Project, and indicated that a bilateral visit would be undertaken to Angola by the Ministry of Energy and Power Development to pursue the matter.

He reported that Angola had requested Zimbabwe for technical discussions to finalise the draft Memorandum of Understanding on the Construction and Maintenance of Liberation War Shrines in that country to ensure a holistic approach to the construction and maintenance of all such sites in the region.

10.0 REPORT ON ZIMBABWE’S PARTICIPATION AT THE SEVENTH FORUM ON CHINA-AFRICA MEDIA COOPERATION: BEIJING, CHINA: AUGUST 20th, 2026

Cabinet received a Report on Zimbabwe’s Participation at the Seventh Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation as presented by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Honourable Dr Zhemu Soda.

The event was held in Beijing, China on August 20th, 2026. Key outcomes of the Seventh Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation include the adoption of a multilateral Joint Declaration aimed at shaping the future of global audio-visual media; and the introduction of a Bilateral Agreement on Broadcasting and Online Audio-Visual Cooperation.

If finalised, the Bilateral Agreement is expected to facilitate several benefits, including joint content production, the adoption of modern media technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, and talent development, among others.

Strategically, the Forum functions as a mechanism for implementing decisions from the broader Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). This framework is vital for Zimbabwe in transforming its national media landscape through the following: Infrastructure Modernisation, which entails transitioning from outdated analogue systems to high-speed digital, satellite and cloud-based broadcasting formats; Information Sovereignty, which supports development of secure, localised data systems to safeguard the country’s digital space from external influence; Narrative Balance, which establishes direct communication channels to counteract Western media biases with accurate, sovereign perspectives; and Audio-Visual Innovation, which focuses on producing micro-dramas aligned with demographic content consumption trends.

11.0 REPORT ON THE SEVENTEENTH SESSION OF THE CONFERENCE OF PARTIES (COP17), THE TWENTY-FOURTH SESSION OF THE COMMITTEE FOR THE REVIEW OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (CST17) TO THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION (UNCCD), MONGOLIA: AUGUST 17TH TO 28TH, 2026

Cabinet received a Report on Seventeenth Session of the Conference of Parties (COP17), the Twenty-Fourth Session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Science and Technology (CST17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification as presented by the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Honourable Evelyn Ndlovu.

The event was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from August 17th to 28th, 2026, under the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope.” The objectives of COP 17 was to review implementation progress under the UNCCD Strategic Framework (2018—2030); to adopt the biennial budget of the Convention; and to negotiate a strengthened global framework for responding to desertification, land degradation and drought (DLDD).

Key outcomes for Zimbabwe include the following, among other benefits:

• Being accorded the Chairmanship of the African Group of Negotiators, overseeing a two-year political mandate to coordinate the continent’s unified land and climate agenda across the Rio Conventions.
• Confirmation as host country for the Fifth Session of the Food and Agriculture Organisation Committee on Forestry Working Group on Dryland Forests in 2027, and consolidation of the GEF-7 Drylands and GEF-8 Sustainable Cities partnerships; and
• Endorsement of the Ulaanbaatar Declaration, entitled “Restoring Land, Restoring Hope”, which reaffirmed Parties’ commitment to the UNCCD and emphasised land restoration, sustainable rangeland management, soil and water conservation and integrated water resources management as foundations for drought resilience and Land Degradation Neutrality. The Declaration advocated for stronger country-led actions through national plans, increased financing and inclusive approaches that recognise the roles of women, youth, indigenous peoples and local communities.

The Declaration also highlighted the importance of science, indigenous knowledge, and integrated land and water management, thereby providing Zimbabwe with a strategic basis to enhance drought preparedness and land restoration, and to mobilise partnerships and resources for implementation.

I THANK YOU!