Online Reporter
Oliver Kazunga
Senior Reporter
INDUSTRY and Commerce Minister Dr Mangaliso Ndlovu has called for urgent investment in energy self-sufficiency while positioning it as a key driver of Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and long-term economic resilience.
Addressing delegates during the International Business Conference at the ongoing Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo yesterday, he said global geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have exposed vulnerabilities in energy supply chains.
Therefore, simultaneously presents an opportunity for the country to rethink its energy strategy.
“The evolving global dynamics present an opportunity to accelerate industrial transformation, underscoring the urgency of advancing energy self-sufficiency through renewable energy, biofuel, and alternative energy solutions while deepening the localisation of industrial inputs and strengthening domestic value chains,” said Dr Ndlovu.
He said rising fuel and transport costs — driven largely by instability in global markets- have tested businesses, but the industry has shown resilience.
“While I note that fuel and transport costs increased by close to 39 percent mainly due to the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, business has largely absorbed the shocks as reflected in the continued stability of general prices.
“Where adjustments have occurred, they have remained modest and contained,” said Dr Ndlovu.
He said reducing dependence on imported energy will not only cushion the economy from external shocks but also enhance the competitiveness of local industries.
Dr Ndlovu noted that energy security should be anchored on innovation and collaboration across sectors.
“In the ensuing bid to innovate and adapt to the dynamics of geopolitically induced shocks Government, industries, and academia are challenged to co-create solutions that strengthen competitiveness, entrench innovation, and deepen regional integration,” he said.
He said the country’s industrial transformation agenda — underpinned by strong policy frameworks — now requires decisive implementation, with energy playing a central role.
“Zimbabwe stands at a pivotal moment, the foundation for growth has been laid, fairly robust policies are in place and opportunities are abundant.
“It is the opportune time to forge partnerships to invest in the industry and to build a competitive and connected economy,” said Dr Ndlovu, adding that upcoming policy initiatives such as the Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy II will prioritise sectors that depend heavily on reliable and affordable energy — including agro-processing and mineral beneficiation.
“Our Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy II, which was recently approved by the Government and is soon to be launched, primarily focuses on accelerating agro-processing driven by strong backward and forward linkages while the mineral value addition, beneficiation, and industrialisation is equally poised to take centre stage.
“As a ministry, we are collaborating closely with the ministries of mines, of agriculture, of energy and all key ministries in the economic cluster to drive economic growth and create sustainable jobs,” he said.
