Debra Matabvu
Senior Reporter
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the completion of the second review of Zimbabwe’s 10-month Staff-Monitored Programme (SMP), citing continued progress in stabilising the economy and implementing key economic reforms.
The completion of the review is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s track record on policy implementation as the country intensifies efforts to clear its external arrears and re-engage with the international financial community.
In a statement on Wednesday, the IMF said Zimbabwe’s economy had remained resilient, with economic activity continuing to expand during the first half of the year.
“Economic activity continued to expand during the first half of 2026, while annual ZiG inflation remained in the low single digits, at 3.7 percent in September,” the IMF said.
“The exchange rate remained broadly stable, and the external position benefited from strong mineral exports, favourable commodity prices and resilient remittance inflows.
“Fiscal revenue also exceeded expectations, contributing to a stronger-than-programmed primary balance.”
The latest assessment provides further backing for Government’s efforts to restore macroeconomic stability, strengthen public finances and create conditions for the resolution of the country’s longstanding debt and arrears.
The SMP is being used by the IMF to monitor Zimbabwe’s implementation of economic policies and reforms, providing a framework for assessing progress as the country works towards clearing arrears and rebuilding relations with international financial institutions.
The IMF review comes as Government continues to pursue measures to stabilise the ZiG, improve fiscal management and advance the broader debt-resolution strategy.
