Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu, Harare Bureau
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa will today launch the National Development Strategy (NDS2), which is the country’s second five-year economic blueprint running from 2026 to 2030.
The NDS2 is expected to consolidate the gains made under NDS1 and accelerate Zimbabwe’s journey towards Vision 2030. Under the NDS2, ten broad national priorities have been identified to drive development across all sectors.
The priorities are (i) macro-economic stability and financial sector deepening, (ii) inclusive economic growth and structural transformation, (iii) infrastructural development and housing, (iv) agriculture, food security, climate resilience and environmental protection, (v) science, technology, innovation, digitalisation and human capital development, (vi) job creation, youth development, creative industry and culture, (vii) social development, gender and social protection.
The others are regional development and inclusivity through devolution and decentralisation; image building, international relations and trade, and good governance, institution building, peace and security.
Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the NDS1 helped the country to register massive economic growth and development.
He also confirmed that NDS 2 had been approved by the Cabinet.
“The draft National Development Strategy 2 blueprint was validated and approved by Cabinet,” he said.
Dr Muswere also highlighted some of the various achievements registered under day 50 of the 100-day cycle projects of 2025. The NDS 1 ran from 2021 ending in December this year.
Dr Muswere said under the Thematic Area of the NDS1 on moving the economy up the value chain and structural transformation, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce recorded various achievements in the period under review.
“Rural and Urban Competitiveness Index surveys were conducted in eleven local authorities in Matabeleland and Mashonaland East provinces, and reports were produced,” he said.
“The Mega Market (Private) Limited’s 1,6 megawatt solar plant in Mutare has been completed and the Mega Market noodles manufacturing plant is well on course, with all plant equipment now on site and the company undertaking civil works.
“The construction of the Jainqiang Cement plant in Hwange, Matabeleland North Province, is in progress with the warehouse and brick wall for the ball mill having been completed.”
Dr Muswere added that construction of Phase 1 of the Shopping Mall in Mutare is complete, with Phase 2 of the project now at 10 percent.
Construction of the retail superstructure for Spar Cardinals in Chisipite, Harare, has been completed and the installation of refrigeration and other equipment is at 90 percent.
Further, the construction of Greenfields Shopping Mall in Harare is almost complete, with 80 percent of the targeted tenants having taken up business space.
Dr Muswere said under the economic growth and stability thematic area under NDS1, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion had registered increased revenue collection, with the revenue mobilisation target for August 2025 exceeded by six percent.
Similarly, construction of 16 units of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority Fairbridge Staff Cottages in Manicaland is 90 percent complete and the project is expected to be completed by December, while the Zimra Chiredzi Office is 96 percent complete.
Dr Muswere said the Weneka Housing Development Phase 3 in Graniteside, Harare, is complete and the establishment of the Committee on Holistic Pension Reforms has been approved and 11 ministries, departments and agencies have been trained in enterprise risk management.
Under the Infrastructure and Utilities pillar of the NDS 1, the Ministry of State for National Security recorded various achievements under rural infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, the Government is taking significant steps to address the growing issue of food insecurity, ensuring that all citizens have access to essential food supplies in alignment with President Mnangagwa’s commitment to leaving no one and no place behind.
Minister Muswere said the initiative comes in response to reports indicating that 34 rural districts and 28 urban districts are facing food shortages.
The food shortages have been exacerbated by a recent El Niño-induced drought, which has had devastating effects on the 2023-24 agricultural season.
El Niño events are known for causing unpredictable weather patterns, often resulting in prolonged dry spells and other adverse climatic conditions.
This year’s drought has led to grain shortages, prompting the Government to take timely action to assist those affected.
“The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare updated Cabinet on measures that are being taken to ensure that all food-insecure people are assisted timeously,” he said.
Experts anticipate improved rainfall this coming season, but the scars from the previous drought remain.
The 2023-24 agricultural season was characterised by crop failures and diminished yields, leaving many families in vulnerable situations, and subsequent intervention by the Government.
Government’s initiatives are critical for providing rapid assistance to food-insecure individuals, ensuring that support reaches those in need as quickly as possible.
As part of these measures, the Government plans to enhance food distribution networks and deploy resources to regions most affected by food scarcity.
The Government’s proactive response aims not only to alleviate the immediate challenge but also to strengthen the country’s agricultural resilience for the future.
