Bongani Ndlovu
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) says licensing performance maintained strong momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the agency issuing 235 new investment licences, representing a 17,5 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
In an update on the fourth quarter of 2025, ZIDA chief executive officer Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo said licensing performance during the quarter demonstrated continued momentum.
“The Agency issued 235 new investment licences, reflecting a 17,5 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. While proposed investment values declined to US$1,18 billion compared to US$4,59 billion in Q4 2024, this largely reflected the absence of large capital-intensive projects that characterised the previous period,” said Mr Chinamo.
He added: “The 2025 approvals instead reflect a more diversified portfolio of medium-scale investments, signalling sustained investor interest despite lower aggregate capital commitments.
“Actual monitored inflows totalled US$1,547 billion, representing a 31 percent realisation rate against monitored project projections and four percent progress against overall projected investment from all licensed projects since January 2022.”
ZIDA noted that beyond licensing, substantial progress was recorded in the appraisal of public-private partnerships (PPPs) across key sectors of the economy, including infrastructure, mining, manufacturing, water and real estate.
“Substantial progress was also made in PPP appraisal across infrastructure, mining, manufacturing, water and real estate. A major achievement during the quarter was the negotiation and conclusion of the Hwange Power Station Units 1–6 Rehabilitation, Operation and Transfer PPP, implemented between the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) and Jindal Energy Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd.
“The Hunyani Estates Special Economic Zone was formally designated during the quarter, strengthening the Agency’s capacity to attract investment into agro-processing value chains, including citrus, avocado, paprika, macadamia and livestock.”
The agency also noted significant strides in digital transformation, marked by the launch of the ZIDA Data Lake.
“Another important milestone was the launch of the ZIDA Data Lake, representing a transformative step towards data-driven decision-making and digital-first service delivery. By consolidating institutional knowledge and integrating AI-enabled analytics, the platform enhances operational efficiency, strengthens transparency and significantly improves the investor experience. As we move into 2026, our focus will be on system optimisation, cybersecurity, data integrity and ensuring full value realisation from this strategic digital investment.”
Mr Chinamo expressed appreciation to partners for their continued support during the quarter.
“As I reflect on the quarter, I extend my sincere appreciation to all our stakeholders, Government ministries, development partners, the private sector and the investment community for their unwavering support. Our achievements are a testament to the strength of these partnerships and our shared commitment to accelerating Zimbabwe’s economic transformation.”
Looking ahead, the agency said it remains aligned with national priorities as Zimbabwe prepares for the transition to the next development framework.
“Looking ahead to 2026 and the transition to National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), ZIDA remains closely aligned to National Priority Area 9: Image Building, International Relations and Trade. Our efforts will focus on strengthening business readiness, improving the investment climate and accelerating whole-of-Government digital transformation.
“A key priority will be the full operationalisation of the One-Stop Investment Services Centre (OSISC) by 2030, positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive, efficient and investor-responsive destination within the global investment landscape.”
Online Reporter