Online Reporter
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke
Senior Reporter
The Government has approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Zimbabwe and Nicaragua, paving the way for enhanced bilateral relations and cooperation across multiple sectors.
The agreement, which seeks to establish a Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC), was presented to Cabinet yesterday.
Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, speaking during the post-Cabinet briefing said the JPCC aims to deepen collaboration between the two nations by fostering mutual understanding and facilitating joint efforts in key areas.
“The Agreement aims to bolster bilateral relations and cooperation by promoting mutual understanding and collaboration. The Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation will focus on strengthening bilateral ties and fostering cooperation across various sectors, including economic cooperation, scientific and technological advancements, environmental protection, education, and cultural exchange,” he said.
The MoU is in tandem with the country’s foreign policy objectives of engaging and re-engaging with global partners to create mutually beneficial cooperation frameworks.
Zimbabwe has also taken a significant step toward strengthening its role in international dispute resolution by approving the signing of the Convention Establishing the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed).
The IOMed, spearheaded by the People’s Republic of China, will be the first intergovernmental legal organisation dedicated solely to resolving international disputes through mediation.
“The initiative aligns with the principles of the United Nations Charter, which promotes the peaceful settlement of conflicts between nations. Zimbabwe is continuously increasing its participation in regional and international organisations that champion peace and human well-being,” said Minister Muswere.
Accordingly, he said, it was desirable for Zimbabwe to become a party to the IOMed.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet also approved the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Amendment Bill, a move aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and fairness in public procurement processes.
Minister Muswere said the proposed amendments sought to fortify the existing Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act [Chapter 22:23] by addressing legal and procedural gaps that hinder its full alignment with the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
“Among other key amendments, the Bill introduces the restriction of employees and their relatives from participating in the procurement of disposed assets, thereby preventing potential conflicts of interest and undue influence. This move aims to promote transparency, fairness, and accountability in public procurement processes for ease of doing business while facilitating the country’s road to rapid industrialisation in pursuit of Vision 2030,” he said.
By enhancing regulatory measures, the Amendment Bill is expected to improve public confidence in procurement processes, support ease of doing business, and create an environment conducive to investment and industrial growth.
Minister Muswere said the amendment would ensure better management in the procurement and disposal of public assets.
