Local firm inks cooperation MoUs with Zambian companies

Robworth has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Purely Zambian Import and Exports Limited and Nezya Enterprises Limited. This followed Business-to-Business (B2B) engagement held during the ZimTrade-organised conference on Agriculture and Construction 2026 on June 9, 2026.

Michael Tome-Business Reporter

ZIMBABWEAN company Robworth Construction has signed strategic cooperation agreements with two Zambian firms to explore business opportunities in construction, infrastructure development and related sectors.

National trade promotion and development body ZimTrade organised the conference as part of the Services Business Mission held from June 9-11, to strengthen trade, investment and industrial linkages between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Zimbabwe companies in the agricultural field also took part in the Zambia Services Business Mission. The MoUs mark a step towards deeper regional cooperation under the frameworks of COMESA and SADC, with the companies seeking to leverage opportunities arising from increased economic integration within the region.

Under the agreements, the parties will explore collaboration in construction skills development, transfer of technical expertise, supply of building materials from Zimbabwe and potential joint ventures and partnerships.

The partnerships will also focus on capacity building through the exchange of technical knowledge, training programmes and innovation, while promoting investment opportunities through industrial cooperation and access to trade financing.

Robworth will support construction initiatives in Zambia, including the development of housing and cluster projects, while working with local authorities to facilitate regulatory approvals and compliance requirements.

Purely Zambian Import and Exports Limited will provide product and service profiles for consideration by the Zimbabwean partner and assist with construction procedures, logistics coordination and compliance with Zambian construction regulations.

The MoUs create a framework for cooperation in a wide range of sectors, including trade in goods and services, investment and joint ventures, construction and logistics partnerships, mining and mineral value addition, agribusiness and food processing, as well as energy, infrastructure and manufacturing collaboration.

Robworth said the agreements would help create opportunities for regional business expansion while strengthening industrial linkages between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

These companies will also exchange information on construction regulations, industry standards and emerging requirements to improve efficiency and promote best practices.

The agreements are non-binding expressions of intent, with any future commercial commitments to be formalised through separate agreements or contracts.

The MoUs will remain valid for 12 months from the date of signing and may be renewed or terminated through mutual agreement.

Partnerships between these companies come as Zimbabwean companies increasingly seek opportunities in regional markets, leveraging trade integration initiatives to expand exports, investment flows and industrial cooperation across Southern Africa.

Robworth Construction chief executive officer (CEO) Mr Robert Manyawu, who was part of the Zimbabwe Services Business Mission to Zambia, expressed optimism over the opportunities presented by the Zambian market, highlighting the potential for increased collaboration, investment and business growth between the two countries.

Mr Manyawu said the mission provided a valuable platform for Zimbabwean companies to engage with potential Zambian partners, understand market opportunities and explore avenues to expand their operations into the region.

He noted that Zambia’s growing construction, infrastructure and property development sectors present significant opportunities for Zimbabwean firms with expertise and capacity to contribute to major projects.

“Zambia is a strategic market with immense potential, particularly in infrastructure development, construction and related services. The engagements we have had during this mission have demonstrated the appetite for partnerships that bring together expertise, resources and innovation from both countries,” said Mr Manyawu.

He added that establishing strong business relationships through initiatives such as the Zimbabwe Services Business Mission was critical in promoting regional trade and supporting the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Mr Manyawu said Robworth Construction was keen to leverage partnerships with Zambian companies to deliver quality construction solutions while contributing to economic development in the region.

ZimTrade’s Zambia Services Business Mission has opened opportunities for local companies and skilled professionals in agriculture and construction to engage with Zambian businesses for stronger cooperation and new business opportunities.

He said the partnerships would create a foundation for sustainable growth while allowing companies from both countries to benefit from shared expertise and market access.

Nezya Enterprises CEO Mr John Sichagwa said the company was keen to work with qualified Zimbabwean construction professionals under a formal framework to ensure access to reliable expertise for residential, industrial and commercial projects in Zambia.

“We would be glad to work with building and construction experts that come under the professional banner of ZimTrade because we have had challenges with some independent tradesmen from Zimbabwe.

“It will therefore be prudent if we have an MoU with ZimTrade, so that we have access to credible expertise to build residential, industrial and commercial buildings here in Zambia,” said Mr Sichagwa.

Purely Zambian Import and Exports CEO, Reverend Agness Chongo, said there was growing demand for skilled Zimbabwean construction workers, citing their expertise in areas such as bricklaying, plastering, tiling, painting, surveying, civil and structural engineering.

She said the availability of skilled professionals would boost business confidence and enable companies to take on more construction projects.

“It is always good to give people a chance, and it is encouraging to meet people who have the right skill set.

“That gives us a lot of confidence as a business, and it enables us to take on more work.

“We have come to realise that Zimbabweans generally have stronger skills in the construction sector,” said Reverend Chongo.