By Khadija R. Salimini
Industry and commerce players convened in Bulawayo yesterday for a high-level consultative workshop aimed at shaping the Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy II (ZNIDP 2), a strategic blueprint set to guide the country’s industrialisation agenda from 2026 to 2030.
The meeting, which brought together representatives from Matabeleland South and Bulawayo, was organised by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) in conjunction with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. It forms part of a broader national process to develop a policy aligned with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2). Stakeholders engaged in critical discussions around achievements, gaps, and future priorities.
ZNIDP 2 builds on the foundation of ZNIDP 1 (2019–2025), which sought to promote structural economic transformation, enhance value addition, and grow manufacturing capacity. Under the first policy, Zimbabwe aimed to grow the manufacturing sector by 2% annually and increase its contribution to GDP from 12% to 18%. While notable progress was made, several challenges remain.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Dr. Thomas Utete Wushe, Bulawayo Provincial Director Mrs. Mary Chingonzoh emphasised the ministry’s commitment to an inclusive and forward-looking policy.
“The ministry is ready to work with both private and public sector partners to ensure that ZNIDP 2 is dynamic, actionable, and truly transformative. We must accelerate efforts to industrialise as we pursue Vision 2030,” she said.
Dr. Wushe acknowledged the gains made under ZNIDP 1 but noted that persistent obstacles must be addressed to fully unlock Zimbabwe’s industrial potential.
“While the accomplishments are promising, our journey toward industrial recovery and transformation still faces major challenges, including infrastructure gaps, high operational costs, and limited access to affordable financing,” he stated.
CZI Chief Economist Dr. Cornelius Dube, who presented the preliminary framework for ZNIDP 2, reiterated that the proposals were still under review and subject to stakeholder input.
“These are just initial ideas from the steering committee. Nothing is binding yet. However, despite the slow pace, there are signs of growth within the industrial sector,” said Dr. Dube.
ZNIDP 2 is expected to focus on promoting value addition, developing industrial clusters, strengthening value-chain linkages, and boosting export-oriented manufacturing. The policy also emphasises transparency, accountability, and wide stakeholder participation.
As the countdown to the end of ZNIDP 1 in December 2025 continues, the successful formulation and implementation of ZNIDP 2 will be essential for repositioning Zimbabwe’s industrial sector as a cornerstone of inclusive and sustainable economic development.
