US Committed to Building Partnerships and Innovation in Africa – Ambassador Tremont

Leonard Ncube and Leonorah Ncube
THE United States Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Pamela Tremont, has said her country’s new administration under Donald Trump is committed to building partnerships and driving change in under-served communities through bold and innovative action.
She was speaking at the Southern Africa US Exchange Alumni Summit in Victoria Falls, where over 200 young people—who have benefited from various mentorship and educational programmes implemented by the US—are in attendance.
The summit, which is running under the theme “Regional Alumni Connections: Advancing Innovative Solutions to Global Challenges,” concludes today.
Ambassador Tremont highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing modern global challenges, particularly in Africa.
“At this gathering, we aim to build relationships—we all need to make our countries safer, stronger, and more prosperous. Your leadership, vision, and imagination are crucial in achieving these goals.
“There are three key messages I want to share with you today: Firstly, the new leadership in the United States is focused on building partnerships and effecting positive change through bold and innovative action. Secondly, relationships are powerful—they strengthen the United States and also make your businesses and organisations stronger. Thirdly, I encourage you to use modern tools and technology to improve connections and efficiency,” she said.
Ambassador Tremont stated that alumni are well-positioned to drive meaningful change, reinforcing the summit’s goal of strengthening regional partnerships for a safer and more prosperous future.
She cited successful cross-border collaborations in Zimbabwe and eSwatini, facilitated through the Jacobson Institute at the University of Iowa.
Last year, Hozi Innovator Trust in Zimbabwe partnered with an alumnus from eSwatini to implement a project that enhanced entrepreneurial skills for 500 emerging business leaders and pioneers in both countries.
Ambassador Tremont emphasised the significant contributions alumni have made to economic development, entrepreneurship, and technological advancements. She reiterated that strong relationships not only benefit the United States but also help businesses and organisations worldwide tackle global challenges such as food security and energy crises.
“Some of you are exploring creative ways to access capital and expand your businesses through e-commerce, international partnerships, social enterprises, and financial literacy training. We know of alumni working to increase crop yields and reduce food waste, thereby improving food security while also creating food products for international markets,” she said.
She encouraged alumni to embrace emerging technologies to maximise their impact.
“As forward-thinking innovators, you have the opportunity not only to use new technologies like artificial intelligence and time-saving apps but also to shape the sector and develop your own unique technologies and applications,” she added.
Ambassador Tremont commended alumni-led advancements in satellite connectivity, AI-driven solutions, and telehealth programmes.
“We are aware of alumni working with low-orbit satellites to bring internet access to rural areas. Others are developing AI to function as news presenters, customer service representatives, and analysts, reducing costs and expanding operations.
“We believe your leadership and efforts will bring our nations closer together, strengthen ties with American counterparts, and advance shared priorities that benefit us all,” she said.