At the sidelines of the prestigious Horasis India Meeting in Adelaide, Ambassador Joe Mhishi, representing the Republic of Zimbabwe to the Commonwealth of Australia, shared his insightful perspectives on Zimbabwe’s economic potential. His commentary delved into various sectors ripe for investment, showcasing the nation’s readiness for global economic engagement.
Zimbabwe’s Economic Landscape: A Flourishing Breadbasket
Ambassador Mhishi proudly referred to Zimbabwe as the traditional “Bread Basket of Africa,” a status being reclaimed post the Land Reform program. This initiative has empowered over 360,000 households with land access, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity. He emphasized the country’s success in wheat and maize production, signalling a triumphant return to agricultural abundance.
Reforming Land and Ensuring Food Security
The Land Reform program, according to Ambassador Joe Mhishi , has been central to Zimbabwe’s journey towards sustainable food security. By integrating climate-proofed agricultural practices and focusing on agricultural mechanization and modernization, Zimbabwe is not only empowering rural communities but also ensuring household-level food security. The Presidential Input Support Program, providing seeds and technical support, has been pivotal in this transformation.
Mining: A Keystone of Zimbabwe’s Economy
Highlighting the mining sector’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s GDP, Ambassador Mhishi pointed out the sector’s remarkable growth. Targeting a significant increase in the mining sector’s valuation by 2023, he emphasized Zimbabwe’s rich mineral resources, including critical elements like lithium and chrome, vital for the global shift towards a green economy.
Tourism: Zimbabwe’s Low Hanging Fruit
Ambassador Mhishi described tourism as a lucrative sector with immense potential for investors. With various incentives like tax rebates and duty rebates on capital goods import, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as an attractive destination for tourism investments. The country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, and natural wonders like Victoria Falls, offer a plethora of opportunities for tourism development.
Energy Sector and Sustainable Practices
Addressing the energy sector, Mhishi underscored Zimbabwe’s initiatives in embracing renewable energy sources, including solar and hydropower. The country is actively encouraging investments in wind energy, showcasing a commitment to sustainable development.
Zimbabwe’s Commitment to Education and Workforce Development
In response to a query on education and workforce development, Ambassador Mhishi highlighted Zimbabwe’s exemplary education system, noted for its low illiteracy rate and focus on innovation. He emphasized the shift towards an education system that nurtures innovation and practical skills, preparing a workforce ready to meet the demands of a growing economy and attract international businesses.
Horasis Meeting in Zimbabwe: A Gateway to Opportunities
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Mhishi expressed enthusiasm for the possibility of hosting a future Horasis meeting in Zimbabwe. He emphasized that such an event would not only showcase Zimbabwe’s investment opportunities but also allow investors to experience the country’s rich tourism offerings. The potential hosting of Horasis in Zimbabwe symbolizes the country’s openness to global investors and its readiness to engage in mutually beneficial economic and business ventures.
Ambassador Joe Mhishi’s engagement at the Horasis India Meeting in Adelaide was a testament to Zimbabwe’s growing economic potential and its readiness to embrace global partnerships. With a focus on sustainable practices, and innovation in agriculture, mining, tourism, and energy, Zimbabwe is poised to reclaim its status as a significant player in the global economic arena.