Online Reporter
* Grain Production Update: Zimbabwe has adequate grain at the national level despite localised shortages.
* Grain Harvest Progress: Winter wheat harvesting is underway with 57,6 percent complete, yielding 385 267 tonnes. Barley harvest yielded 27 796 tonnes.
* Irish Potato Production: 5 977 hectares of Irish potatoes have been planted, exceeding last year’s yield per hectare.
* Crop Production Goal: Produce enough food to feed the nation, replenish the Strategic Grain Reserve and increase exports.
* Tobacco Production: 21 773 hectares planted, representing a 29 percent increase.
SADC Anti-Sanctions Day
* SADC Anti-Sanctions Day Commemorations: To be held on October 25, 2025, under the theme “Inclusive Development through Heritage-based Innovation and Industrialisation in a Multilateral World”.
* Government Policies and Public Resilience: Highlighting Government’s people-centred policies and the resilience of Zimbabwean people in resisting external pressure.
* International Advocacy and Support: Disseminating the President’s address to host governments and lobbying for support against sanctions, including a SADC Statement in commemoration of SADC Anti-Sanctions Day.
* Domestic Events and Initiatives: Organising an Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Event and Gala, releasing a documentary showcasing SME achievements, and hosting a public lecture and student-led panel discussions.
ZIMBABWE’S INDUSTRIALISATION AGENDA
* Plan Overview: The Zimbabwe Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan (2024-2025) is a transitional framework between the expired and upcoming Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy 2.
* Plan Objectives: The plan aims to address challenges in manufacturing and commerce, reduce imports, enhance local production and unlock export potential.
* Implementation Progress: As of September 2025, the plan’s implementation stands at 70 percent completion, with 115 activities set for implementation across four pillars.
* Commerce Sector Contribution: Contributes up to 60 percent of the country’s GDP.
* Anti-Smuggling Efforts: Establishment of a National Command Centre led to inspections, prosecutions, and seizures of contraband goods.
* Manufacturing Sector Growth: Accounts for 15% of real GDP and contributes 7% to total formal employment.
* Industrial Growth: Zimbabwe’s industrial sector is experiencing growth in various sub-sectors, including cement production, trailer assembly, and fertiliser production.
* Investment in Infrastructure: Significant investments are being made in infrastructure projects, such as the US$10 million Century Auto new vehicle manufacturing plant.
* Policy Development: The Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy 2 (2026-2030) is being drafted and aligned with the National Development Strategy 2.
VELD FIRE MANAGEMENT
* Veld Fire Incidents: 211 fires burned 76 940.61 hectares of veld, resulting in three deaths and over US$1 454 850 in property damage.
* Fire Awareness Efforts: 177 fire awareness meetings were held, reaching 30 688 people.
* Government Recommendations: Farmers are advised to have fire suppression measures and equipment, and to use appropriate land preparation tools instead of fire.
PRINCIPLES OF THE SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES BILL
* Bill Amendment Purpose: To ensure MSMEs contribute to socio-economic transformation by adapting to emerging needs and global trends.
* Bill Amendment Content: Accreditation of MSMEs, MSME Associations and Business Development Service Providers, along with a review of the MSME definition.
* Bill Amendment Impact: Enhance MSME formalisation, bolster their economic participation, and contribute to employment, industrialisation, export growth and Vision 2030 attainment.
