Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in Surat, Gujarat State, India
Zimbabwe’s participation at a country specific investment conference here is a concrete opportunity for transformative partnerships and firm return on investment in a growing economy that also offers access to a market of 1,4 billion people and in excess of US$3,4 trillion in value, Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.
VP Chiwenga was speaking at the inaugural Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chalo Zimbabwe (Let’s Go to Zimbabwe) Trade and Investment Forum organised by the chamber.
The VP is here primarily for the Africa Conclave on India-Africa Partnership, which is organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry as part of efforts by the world’s fouth largest economy to scout for opportunities on the African continent.
With Zimbabwe courting global investment attention thanks to President Mnangagwa’s investment lure, VP Chiwenga has had to attend a Zimbabwe specific investment conference ahead of the conclave.
“Zimbabwe is on an irreversible path to becoming an empowered upper middle-income economy,” said VP Chiwenga, “We are driving reforms anchored on industrialisation, value-addition, beneficiation, and economic diversification.
“With a wealth of natural resources, a youthful and skilled workforce, and preferential access to regional markets, Zimbabwe offers itself as a compelling investment destination. Since establishing relations in the historic yester-years, Zimbabwe and India have nurtured a strong and enduring partnership built on mutual respect and shared prosperity.
“Zimbabwe’s strategic location at the heart of Southern Africa, coupled with growing logistics and transport infrastructure, makes it the natural gateway to the African Continental Free Trade Area a unified market of 1,4 billion people and a GDP exceeding US$3,4 trillion. For Indian investors, this is not just an entry point; it is an opportunity to leverage economies of scale and integrate into global supply chains through Africa,” he said.
The VP noted that over 25 Indian-owned large companies already operate successfully in Zimbabwe, including Surface Wilmar Investments and Varun Beverages.
“These are examples of what is possible when we work together,” said VP Chiwenga.
He invited Indian investors to consider high-impact sectors that align with global trends saying Zimbabwe’s growth priorities are mining and mineral value addition, agriculture and agro-processing, textile and cotton value chain, pharmaceutical manufacturing, renewable energy, tourism, ICT among others.
“The message is clear: Zimbabwe is ready for investment, partnership and shared prosperity,” said VP Chiwenga.
“Let Chalo Zimbabwe be the catalyst for a new era of trade and economic collaboration between Zimbabwe and India.
“Together, we can build resilient value chains, unlock innovation-driven growth, and create sustainable wealth for future generations,” said VP Chiwenga.
President of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr Nikhil Madrasi said the business community here has been impressed by the Vice-President’s pitch and are willing to partner Zimbabwe and implored for more engagements like these investment scouting missions.
“Our membership is enthusiastic about coming to Zimbabwe,” said Mr Madrasi.
“Many businesses here have been inspired by the positive trajectory outlined by Vice-President Chiwenga and are eager to participate in Zimbabwe’s developmental strategy.
“We look forward to partnering for mutual growth and success,” said Mr Madrasi.
Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Raj Modi also reiterated that what Zimbabwe wants its partnerships in value-addition to revive the manufacturing sector.
