Diasporans call for engagement

national development programmes.
During a question and answer session at the Zimbabwe Investment Conference, Diaspora-based Zimba-bweans said although they were interested in contributing to the country’s socio-economic development, their participation was largely incoherent.
“Contrary to prevalent perceptions, we in the Diaspora community are very much interested in the well being of the economy and we are playing our bit, however these efforts are disjointed and as such they are not in tune with efforts on the ground,” said one United Kingdom-based businessman.
There were also concerns on the country’s stance on dual citizenship.
“I am a South African-based Zimba-bwean sitting on the boards of a number of companies and parastatals in that country, but the problem is that I am married to a South African, as such I hold South African citizenship.
“Regardless of the fact that I am Zimbabwean-born, I am officially treated as a foreigner when I come back home. This somewhat places constraints on my participation in national affairs,” said another.
Responding to these concerns, the Economic Planning and Investment Promotion Minister Tapiwa Mashakada said Government values the role being played by the foreign based Zimbabweans and was presently looking to enhance the Diaspora community’s capacities to contribute to socio-economic development.
“My ministry appreciates the role played by the Diaspora in promoting Zimbabwe as a positive investment destination.
“Government is developing a policy framework which will determine the structure of engagement with that community in promoting the country,” he said.
Minister Mashakada added that the issue of dual citizenship was one of the major concerns that were raised by Zimbabweans during the COPAC’s conventions across the country and a review of the country’s residency policy was possible in the new constitution.
In addition to promoting the country abroad, the Diaspora community can also play an important role in resource mobilisation, hence there is need to intensify the introduction of the Diaspora bond, which experienced a speedy uptake when CBZ Bank introduced it last year.