Online Reporter
Michael Tome
Business Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) has introduced an Investor Grievance Response Mechanism (IGRM) to strengthen investor confidence in the country.
This comes as the Second Republic has since its inception prioritised increased investment, including under its “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” mantra, which has seen the Government go on a relentless policy reform while issuing incentives for investors, such as tax breaks.
In the first quarter of 2025, ZIDA approved 207 new investment licences, a 44,8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
This surge is attributed to improved investor confidence and the efficiency of the new electronic licencing system
ZIDA’s innovative mechanism is designed to provide a formal process for addressing grievances that arise from Government ministries or policy changes that have the potential to negatively impact existing investment projects.
Provision of a clear and efficient process for addressing these grievances allows ZIDA to promptly resolve investor concerns, preventing them from escalating into more complex and contentious issues.
According to ZIDA, similar mechanisms have been successfully implemented in other countries, where they have proven effective in retaining investments by resolving disputes at an early stage, thereby promoting a stable and predictable investment environment.
IGRM is a straightforward and efficient mechanism for addressing investor concerns.
The process begins with submission, where investors can submit grievances online through ZIDA’s Investment Grievance Form.
This online step allows for real-time tracking, ensuring that both investors and ZIDA can monitor progress.
Once submitted, ZIDA reviews and assesses the grievance’s impact and urgency. This step enables ZIDA to prioritise and address the issue effectively.
According to ZIDA, it then coordinates with relevant authorities to resolve the issue, requiring responses within 5 days.
This prompt engagement ensures that the grievance is addressed promptly.
“Through the IGRM, ZIDA will facilitate direct and timely communication between investors and relevant Government ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for the prompt resolution of grievances, contributing further to investor confidence and creating a stable and predictable investment climate.
“By encouraging our investors to report grievances as soon as they arise and dedicating a team to investigate the matter, the Agency will prevent minor issues from escalating into significant legal disputes that lead to operational disruptions and financial losses,” said ZIDA in a communiqué yesterday.
According to ZIDA, this transparent and efficient grievance resolution process aligns with international best practice for investment retention and expansion, and builds trust between investors and the State.
This is poised to position Zimbabwe as an attractive destination for investment, where investors can operate with confidence and predictability.
“Knowing that there is a reliable system in place to address concerns encourages both current and potential investors to commit resources, being confident in the stability and fairness of the investment environment,” added ZIDA.
Established under the ZIDA Act (Chapter 14:38), the agency is responsible for attracting and protecting investments while providing aftercare services to ensure investor satisfaction and long-term success.
ZIDA drives investment growth through key focus areas, including investment promotion and retention, investment facilitation through its One Stop Investment Services Centre, establishment and regulation of special economic zones (SEZs), facilitation of public-private partnerships (PPPs), and investor aftercare.
