Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in SURAT, Gujarat State, India
THE quest for a revamp of the manufacturing sector is set for a major boost following Government efforts to seek capital and partnerships anew from the world’s fourth largest economy – India.
Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga is here for India’s premier African investment conference, Africa Conclave on India-Africa Partnership, organised by the Confederation of Indian Commerce and Industry.
Yesterday, officials from global leading diamond manufacturing giants, the Hare Krishna Group, met Vice President Chiwenga to explore cooperation modalities anchored on value addition.
Such a cooperation could be a game changer for Zimbabwe which is taking major strides in rough diamond production, but is lagging behind on cutting and jewellery making.
Also in tow were companies in the fabric production value chain who are seeking firm and comprehensive cotton suppliers.
Their interest comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s cotton production has taken a downturn due to a myriad of challenges.
“Zimbabwe is abundantly endowed with diamond resources, and it is imperative that our extractive sector evolves beyond the export of raw minerals,” said VP Chiwenga in a meeting with the Krishnas.
“The future lies in establishing robust domestic industries that focus on value addition and beneficiation, thereby creating jobs, enhancing skills, and unlocking greater economic returns for our citizens.
“I note that this company enhances the value of diamond minerals through cutting, polishing and manufacturing of jewellery; activities that are currently not undertaken in Zimbabwe.
“We export rough diamonds to India, recognising her status as a global hub for diamond cutting and polishing. We thus extend an invitation to leverage this expertise in cutting and polishing within Zimbabwe.
“We envision immense potential for mutually beneficial partnerships, between Zimbabwe and global manufacturers like Hare Krishna Exports.
“Such partnerships can extend beyond trade to encompass joint ventures in value addition, knowledge and skills transfer, and technology sharing, ultimately empowering local communities and strengthening our industrial base,” said VP Chiwenga.
Chairman of the Hare Krishna Group Mr Savjibjai Dholakia expressed enthusiasm about the prospects and confirmed plans for his team to visit Zimbabwe soon to discuss potential ventures in greater detail.
“We are willing to work with Zimbabwe, we will come to Zimbabwe and explore ways we can collaborate,” said Mr Dholakia.
“We have partnerships with Murowa Diamonds and we want to expand that collaboration with other mines in Zimbabwe, so we are coming.”
This engagement marks a pivotal moment in strengthening economic ties between Zimbabwe and India, particularly in the lucrative diamond industry.
