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The Herald, 7 April 1981
THE Government wants to achieve maximum economic growth plus wide distribution of benefits, the Minister of Economic Planning and Development, Senator Bernard Chidzero, said yesterday.
The Minister was leading a discussion on the development policies of the Government at the first public administration and management workshop being held at Troutbeck.
Because of the past inequalities and unequal distribution of resources development programmes must be about change, not Just growth he said. The Government wanted overall growth in the economy but wanted the rate to be faster in those areas neglected in the past.
If someone in the rural areas earning $1 a month doubles his income l don’t think the man earning $100 elsewhere has any cause for complaint if his income rises far more slowly if at all for the moment,” the Minister said.
Although certain economists believed maximum growth and distribution were incompatible, Dr Chidzero believed the two could be complementary. “I think we could have a period of growth followed by distribution of benefits which in turn would stimulate further growth. The Government recognises market forces but not be a slave to them.
Lessons for today
- Zimbabwe’s economy has shown resilience and growth in recent years, with projections for 2025 indicating a growth rate of 5.3% according to the African Development Bank.
- Key sectors such as agriculture, mining, tourism, and infrastructure development have been driving this expansion.
- Government initiatives have improved access to financing and input support schemes aimed to boost production and economic stability.
- Achieving widespread benefits requires strong collaboration between the government and private sector.
- The government has also focused on policies to stabilise the domestic currency and control inflation, which are crucial for sustained economic growth.
Online Reporter