shloboe boeJudith Phiri
Business Reporter
GOVERNMENT has called for collaboration from all stakeholders to achieve rapid industrialisation, which is critical in strengthening Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector.
Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector, while historically a significant contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), faces challenges.
In 2024, the sector’s performance was at 52,3 percent capacity utilisation, a decrease from 2023 when it was at 53,22 percent.
However, the sector remains diversified and holds potential for investment and expansion.
Speaking on the Role of Industrialisation in Strengthening Zimbabwe’s Manufacturing Base at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) International Business Conference held in Bulawayo on Wednesday, Industry and Commerce Minister, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, urged more collaboration to accelerate industrialisation.
“I call upon all stakeholders, Government agencies, private sector players, financial institutions, labour representatives and the research community to work together to achieve rapid industrialisation,” he said.
Minister Ndlovu said the industrialisation of Zimbabwe was not a spectator sport as it requires the active participation of every citizen.
“Let’s work together to build a manufacturing sector that transforms our economy, creates prosperity for our people and position Zimbabwe as an industrial leader in Africa,” he said.
Minister Ndlovu said industrialisation represents the most viable pathway to achieve national development.
He said the transformation of the manufacturing base was not merely an economic imperative but a national mission that will determine the country’s standing in the regional and global economy.
Continues on www.chronicle.co.zw
Online Reporter