Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira, Zimpapers Senior Reporter
NIGERIAN billionaire Aliko Dangote’s technical team is expected in Zimbabwe today, marking a significant step in solidifying the investment agreement signed last Wednesday between Dangote and the Zimbabwean Government.
The team, comprising geologists, surveyors, and engineers, underscores Dangote’s commitment to advancing projects in oil refining, cement and infrastructure, with investments exceeding US$1 billion once fully operational.
Dangote held crucial talks with President Mnangagwa at State House before signing agreements with Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube.
The arrival of the team was confirmed last night by journalist and business adviser Ms Josephine Mahachi during a Bard Santner Nedbank Golf Challenge reception.
Bard Santner Nedbank, led by CEO Mr Senziwani Sikhosana and Ms Mahachi, facilitated Dangote’s visit.
Ms Mahachi revealed that Dangote is satisfied with Zimbabwe’s business prospects after privately sending researchers to explore opportunities in the country.
“Aliko is very pleased with Zimbabwe. The team he sent arrives tomorrow (today), and there’s no time to waste. When Dangote promises to do something, he follows through. Zimbabwe is finally on his radar and there’s no turning back. The geologists and engineers will begin work immediately,” she said.
She dismissed critics of Dangote’s decision, emphasising that he had conducted extensive behind-the-scenes research and stakeholder engagement before committing.
“He’s made up his mind and his team’s arrival confirms it. If anyone is telling him not to come, they’re wasting their time,” she added.
Ms Mahachi also praised Zimbabwean media for their coverage of Dangote’s visit. She highlighted that Dangote’s investments across Africa and beyond are more substantial than often portrayed.
She recounted efforts made by herself and Bard Santner to persuade Dangote to return to Zimbabwe, following initial attempts in 2015 that had faltered.
Mr Sikhosana described Dangote’s visit as a turning point for Zimbabwe.
“It’s a declaration that Zimbabwe is ready to rise. Global capital is beginning to listen again,” he said.
He emphasised that the deal signals Zimbabwe’s stability and openness to business, aligning with President Mnangagwa’s vision.
“The Dangote agreement sends a loud message to the world—that Zimbabwe is open, stabilising and stepping into a new economic era. Bard Santner stands as a bridge for global investment,” he added.
He also stressed the group’s role in economic development.
“If we unite, this investment will leave a legacy of jobs, infrastructure, exports, industries and national pride. Dangote’s partnership with the government shows that when courage, clarity and competence align, great things happen. This is what I saw on Wednesday. Government was involved, private sector was involved and we all met and there was alignment.”
The agreement between Dangote and the Government marks a major move to strengthen economic ties, paving the way for large-scale investments in industrial growth and infrastructure. It includes plans for a new oil refinery, a regional pipeline, fertiliser production to boost agriculture, a cement plant and power generation facilities.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery project will supply gasoline and diesel from Nigeria to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe, fostering regional integration and energy security.
