Online Reporter
Africa Moyo
Deputy National Editor
THE Government plans to consolidate economic growth next year — a period that coincides with the rollout of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) — through industrialisation, mineral beneficiation and infrastructure development, among other critical interventions, Acting President Kembo Mohadi has said.
Mining, agriculture and services, supported by currency stability, prudent fiscal policies and good rains, are expected to continue to drive growth in 2026.
The economy, however, is projected to moderate to about 5 percent, down from 6,6 percent forecast this year.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail at his Munhumutapa offices in Harare last week, Acting President Mohadi said while a lot was achieved this year, including in infrastructure development, healthcare, mining and agriculture, the Government will continue to pursue projects that improve people’s lives and livelihoods.
“We will deepen our commitment to social services, expanding access to health, education and sport so that every Zimbabwean feels the impact of national progress,” he said.
“We will preserve and honour our liberation heritage, ensuring that the sacrifices of our heroes remain a living inspiration for generations to come.
“(We will also) prioritise youth empowerment programmes, ensuring that skills training, innovation hubs and entrepreneurship support are accessible nationwide.”
Social protection systems, he said, would also be strengthened so that all citizens can access basic services.
“Above all, we will foster unity, peace and patriotism, because our strength lies in our togetherness. As a Government, we have expanded access to education, health and housing, and under National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), we will intensify efforts to ensure that every Zimbabwean enjoys dignity, opportunity and inclusion.
“Our goal is to build communities that are not only economically empowered, but also socially cohesive,” he said.
Acting President Mohadi said, while the year had its fair share of challenges, there had been remarkable achievements in ensuring food security and completing the Harare-Beitbridge Highway, where only 37km are now outstanding, as well as modernisation of the National Sports Stadium.
“These milestones remind us that when we work together, nothing is beyond our reach. This year has shown us that social development is the backbone of national progress,” he said.
The National Sports Stadium is being upgraded to ensure the national football team, the Warriors, and other local teams participating in continental competitions can start to host matches.
Having many functional sports facilities, he added, could be useful in significantly reducing drug and substance abuse.
He also said the Government will heighten the fight against drug and substance, especially among youths.
“To this end, the Government is strengthening laws and enforcement against traffickers and suppliers.
“Already, the National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency Bill has been tabled in the Parliament,” he said.
“The Government is expanding rehabilitation and counselling services for those who have been affected, with the support of organisations such as Angel of Hope (Foundation) and Red Cross, among others. Together, under NDS2, we will build a Zimbabwe that is prosperous, inclusive and free from the scourge of drug and substance abuse.
““As the year ends, may it also bring closure to our challenges and open doors to new opportunities. Let us welcome the future with confidence, faith and an unshakeable belief in our collective potential.”
