admin
Victor Muntanga
Herald Correspondent
Delegates from local authorities, led by the Zimbabwean Embassy in Russia, have returned from the 6th BRICS International Municipal Forum in Moscow, Russia, with renewed optimism for the nation’s future.
Supported by my efforts as the official BRICS Forum ambassador for Zimbabwe and associate ambassador for Synergy University in Russia, the delegation engaged in pivotal discussions aimed at positioning Zimbabwe as a key player on the global stage.
The forum, held from August 27–28, is one of the largest platforms for discussing municipal cooperation issues and exchanging expertise in the run-up to the BRICS Summit.
Key discussions revolved around the development of trade and investment relations, as well as the use of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and green technologies to create a comfortable living environment.
The programme also addressed environmental issues, climate change, and solutions in education, healthcare, culture, and tourism, all aimed at enhancing the attractiveness of cities, territories, and regions.
The International Municipal Forum of the BRICS countries (IMBRICS) serves as a vital platform for the exchange of ideas between regional and municipal governments from the BRICS countries, and for building effective business communications with entrepreneurs from Russia and other partner countries. The event is held with the support of the Presidential Administration, the Russian Foreign Ministry, and the government of Moscow.
Why the BRICS Forum mattered for Zimbabwe
As Zimbabwe continues to pursue its Vision 2030 goals, forums like BRICS are essential for positioning the country on the global stage.
The delegates’ participation was crucial in showcasing Zimbabwe’s potential and advocating for investments that align with the nation’s development priorities.
The connections made at the forum are expected to lead to collaborations that will drive growth in key sectors, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Zimbabweans.
Building relationships in the mining sector
Mining remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy, with vast mineral resources that hold the key to economic transformation.
At the BRICS forum, delegates highlighted the opportunities in mineral exploration, the reopening of dormant mines, and value addition. By engaging with potential investors, Zimbabwe is positioning itself to attract the capital needed to unlock the full potential of its mining sector.
The discussions at the forum emphasised the importance of sustainable practices and infrastructure development, which are critical for ensuring the benefits of mining are broadly shared. Future partnerships forged from these initial engagements could lead to significant job creation, improved infrastructure, and increased export revenues.
Expanding opportunities in agriculture and green technology
Agriculture, another vital sector for Zimbabwe, was also a focus at the forum.
The delegates explored potential collaborations in green technology and artificial intelligence to modernise farming practices and boost productivity. These innovations are essential for enhancing food security and opening new markets for Zimbabwean products, ultimately contributing to economic resilience.
The forum also provided a platform for discussing the production of organic fertilisers, an initiative that could benefit not only Zimbabwe but the entire SADC region. By advancing sustainable agricultural practices, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a leader in green technology, which could have long-term benefits for both the environment and the economy.
Enhancing cultural and tourism potential
Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty offer tremendous potential for tourism, a sector that can generate significant revenue and create jobs. The forum allowed Zimbabwe to engage with cultural institutions and explore partnerships that could promote the country as a prime tourist destination.
These efforts are expected to lead to increased international interest in Zimbabwe’s cultural and tourism assets, driving economic activity in local communities and contributing to national development.
The relationships established at the forum could result in collaborations that further develop the tourism industry and preserve Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
Strengthening education
Improving education is critical for Zimbabwe’s long-term development. The BRICS forum provided an opportunity for delegates to engage with Russian institutions, exploring potential partnerships that could enhance the country’s educational infrastructure.
Discussions included the possibility of exchange programmes for Zimbabwean students to study in Russia, where they would spend the first eight months learning Russian and learning how to formulate organic fertilisers.
This initiative would help retain skilled workers within Zimbabwe by reducing brain drain and promoting brain gain. Acclimating young Zimbabweans with BRICS nations will also be beneficial in the long term, as it fosters a generation well-versed in global collaboration and innovation.
Securing fair trade deals
A key focus of the forum was ensuring that Zimbabwe secures fair trade deals for its natural resources. By engaging with international partners, Zimbabwe is working to protect its interests in the global market and ensure that its vast mineral wealth benefits all citizens. The relationships established during the event are expected to lead to partnerships that provide equitable returns for Zimbabwe’s resources, contributing to national prosperity.
Leveraging Technopark Skolkovo for technological advancement
The delegation’s visit to Technopark Skolkovo during IMBRICS 2024 underscored the potential benefits of partnering with leading innovation hubs.
Technopark Skolkovo, part of the Skolkovo Foundation, is a cutting-edge innovation centre focused on areas such as energy efficiency, biomedicine, and strategic computer technologies.
By collaborating with institutions like Technopark Skolkovo, Zimbabwe could leverage advanced technologies and expertise to drive innovation in key sectors, creating opportunities for technology transfer and start-up growth. The state-of-the-art facilities and knowledge at Skolkovo could assist Zimbabwe in establishing its own innovation centres, thereby contributing to the country’s economic diversification and technological advancement.
Conclusion
The 2024 BRICS International Municipal Forum in Russia was a crucial opportunity for Zimbabwe to engage with the global economy and lay the groundwork for future collaborations. The delegates’ participation has set the stage for meaningful partnerships across key sectors such as mining, agriculture, tourism, health care, and education.
These efforts are expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Zimbabweans as the country moves closer to achieving its Vision 2030 goals.
By attending the BRICS forum, Zimbabwe demonstrated its commitment to sustainable development and its readiness to harness its full potential on the international stage.
The foundation laid at this year’s event is a significant step in the nation’s journey towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
Victor Muntanga is Zimbabwe’s ambassador to the International Municipal BRICS Forum
Online Reporter