Online Reporter
Jimmy Murwira
ZIMBABWE’s recent move to formally engage in the process of joining the BRICS bloc marks a pivotal shift in the country’s foreign policy and economic trajectory.
As the nation seeks to reposition itself in a rapidly changing global landscape, BRICS offers a promising platform for economic revitalisation, strategic partnerships and people-centred development.
BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and represents over 40 percent of the world’s population and approximately 25 percent of global GDP.
BRICS has gained prominence for advocating a multipolar world order, promoting South-South cooperation, and challenging the traditional dominance of Western institutions.
For Zimbabwe, becoming a part of this influential alliance is more than symbolic; it is a strategic move with far-reaching implications for the economy and the everyday lives of citizens.
One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of BRICS membership would be expanded access to global markets.
The member countries are among the world’s fastest-growing economies, offering Zimbabwe an opportunity to diversify its trade portfolio beyond traditional Western partners.
This could significantly boost exports, particularly of agricultural produce, minerals, and manufactured goods.
By tapping into large consumer bases in India, China and Brazil, Zimbabwean businesses stand to gain a foothold in dynamic markets that favour long-term trade partnerships grounded in mutual respect and non-interference.
Moreover, BRICS countries often trade using local currencies or alternative arrangements to the US dollar, which would provide relief to Zimbabwe’s foreign currency challenges and make trade transactions more accessible for local enterprises.
Another compelling reason for Zimbabwe’s interest in BRICS is the potential to access alternative sources of development finance.
The BRICS bloc established the New Development Bank (NDB) to fund infrastructure and sustainable development projects in member states and emerging economies.
Joining BRICS could give Zimbabwe direct access to funding for critical infrastructure such as roads, energy projects, water systems and transport networks — investments that are vital for stimulating economic growth and improving service delivery. Unlike traditional international financial institutions, the NDB operates on principles of equal partnership and non-conditionality, aligning well with Zimbabwe’s sovereignty-focused development model.
Such funding would empower the Government to implement high-impact projects that create jobs, reduce poverty, and improve connectivity within the region, thereby enhancing trade and mobility for millions of Zimbabweans.
Membership in BRICS also opens doors to technology transfer, a key component in modernising Zimbabwe’s economy. With countries like China and India making remarkable strides in digital infrastructure, manufacturing, and renewable energy, Zimbabwe could benefit from collaborative ventures and knowledge-sharing platforms aimed at boosting local industries.
This could accelerate the country’s journey toward value addition and beneficiation of raw materials, moving away from the historic dependence on exporting unprocessed commodities. Such industrialisation efforts would create employment, raise incomes, and improve the quality of life for many citizens, particularly the youth and women who are often excluded from traditional economic opportunities.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, employing over 60 percent of the population.
Through BRICS, Zimbabwe can deepen partnerships in agricultural research, irrigation technologies, climate-smart farming and market integration.
Countries like Brazil and India have pioneered innovations in smallholder farming and agro-processing, which can be adapted to Zimbabwe’s context. Enhanced collaboration could result in increased food security, reduced import dependency, and expanded export earnings—ultimately empowering rural communities and stabilising food prices for consumers.
The BRICS framework encourages people-to-people cooperation through cultural exchange, tourism, education, and academic partnerships. Zimbabwe stands to benefit by attracting tourists from member states, strengthening its cultural diplomacy, and increasing its visibility on the global stage.
Expanded air routes, simplified visa regimes, and joint tourism campaigns could significantly boost visitor numbers, creating jobs in the hospitality sector and contributing to foreign currency earnings.
Joining BRICS would elevate Zimbabwe’s global profile, giving it a stronger voice in international affairs. The bloc actively advocates for reforms in global governance institutions such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank — institutions that have historically marginalised African countries.
As part of BRICS, Zimbabwe would participate in shaping a more inclusive and equitable global order. It would have a platform to articulate its development needs, climate goals and peace-building efforts in a forum that respects sovereignty and champions the interests of the Global South.
This enhanced geopolitical relevance would also strengthen Zimbabwe’s bargaining power in international negotiations, be it on trade, climate finance, or intellectual property rights.
The anticipated investments and trade deals resulting from BRICS membership are expected to fuel local entrepreneurship and create thousands of jobs across sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, ICT, logistics and construction.
Youth start-ups could benefit from BRICS innovation funds, incubation programmes and digital skills exchanges.
More importantly, local industries would have the opportunity to become suppliers in global value chains, increasing production and innovation capacity at home.
This would not only tackle unemployment but also inspire a new generation of Zimbabweans to take part in building a vibrant and inclusive economy.
BRICS cooperation extends to education, particularly in research, innovation, and academic collaboration. Zimbabwean universities and institutions stand to gain access to scholarship opportunities, scientific exchanges and joint research projects with counterparts in BRICS nations.
This knowledge exchange would enhance Zimbabwe’s innovation capacity and produce a generation of highly skilled professionals who can contribute to national development in fields such as medicine, engineering, climate science and information technology.
Zimbabwe, like many African nations, is vulnerable to climate change.
Through BRICS partnerships, the country could tap into climate-resilient technologies and sustainable energy solutions such as solar, wind and bioenergy.
This would not only reduce dependency on fossil fuels but also ensure energy access for remote communities, contributing to inclusive development and environmental sustainability.
Zimbabwe’s engagement with BRICS is more than a diplomatic initiative; it is a people-centred strategy for economic renewal and global inclusion. It reflects a bold vision for a prosperous, empowered, and internationally respected nation.
If successful, BRICS membership will unlock new trade corridors, attract development capital, stimulate industrial growth, and create lasting opportunities for citizens across the country.
It positions Zimbabwe not as a passive recipient of aid, but as an active player in shaping the future of global cooperation and development.
In a world defined by shifting alliances and emerging power centres, Zimbabwe’s BRICS bid is a timely and strategic move — one that holds immense promise for economic transformation and the well-being of its people.
Peter Tanyanyiwa