President Mnangagwa Highlights Industrial Resilience and Expanding Sectors at ZANU PF 21st Annual People’s Conference
Zimbabwe’s economic forecast for 2025 is promising, as outlined by President Emmerson Mnangagwa during the ZANU PF 21st Annual People’s Conference. Citing notable achievements across mining, tourism, and industrial sectors, Mnangagwa underscored the nation’s readiness for economic acceleration through capacity utilization and strategic growth plans. With improvements in the mining sector, tourism surpassing targets, and a robust Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan, Zimbabwe is on track for significant, sustainable economic expansion.
Mining Sector to Propel Economic Growth
The mining sector is expected to serve as a backbone for Zimbabwe’s economy, with projections of 90 percent capacity utilization by 2025, rising from 84 percent in 2024. The sector has shown resilience amid fluctuating global commodity prices, boasting a 7 percent growth rate in 2024 and contributing 75 percent to the country’s exports. Currently accounting for 18 percent of Zimbabwe’s GDP, the mining industry, including artisanal and small-scale miners, is set for continuous growth. This progress is fueled by government policies and incentives designed to foster a “win-win” environment within the sector.
To further maximize its impact, the government has announced regular incentive reviews for artisanal miners, whose gold output is steadily increasing month over month. These measures are essential for maintaining Zimbabwe’s status as a leading mining nation in Africa, enhancing foreign exchange inflows and bolstering the country’s economic stability.
Tourism Industry Surpasses Targets
Tourism has exceeded expectations by achieving its 2025 target of US$5 billion ahead of schedule, with contributions to GDP reaching 12 percent in 2023. As an essential export sector, tourism is not only a revenue generator but also supports community development across key tourist destinations. Recognizing these communities as the “heroes and heroines” of Zimbabwean tourism, the government is committed to amplifying their contributions to the industry.
This rapid growth aligns with global trends where adventure and cultural tourism are increasingly popular, with visitors drawn to Zimbabwe’s scenic beauty and rich heritage. The tourism sector’s performance reinforces its role as a critical pillar in Zimbabwe’s economic strategy, driving job creation, regional investment, and an enhanced international profile.
Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan Drives Manufacturing Sector
The Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan introduced by the government is intended to accelerate industrial development while addressing specific challenges faced by the manufacturing and commercial sectors. This plan seeks to consolidate the gains in mining and agriculture, Zimbabwe’s primary production sectors, while laying the foundation for advanced industrialization and cost-effective business operations.
The plan emphasizes reducing business costs, reinforcing value chains, and fostering partnerships between the government and private enterprises. By strengthening the manufacturing sector, the Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan aims to enhance value addition, streamline supply chains, and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This is anticipated to make Zimbabwe’s industrial landscape more competitive and reduce dependence on imports, further boosting economic resilience.
Conclusion
With President Mnangagwa’s focus on economic diversification and policies that foster sectoral growth, Zimbabwe’s economic outlook for 2025 is both optimistic and grounded in achievable targets. The government’s commitment to the mining and tourism industries, combined with the structured development of the manufacturing sector, is expected to enhance business confidence and sustain economic growth. This vision positions Zimbabwe to become a regional economic leader and a prime destination for investment.
