Mnangagwa Urges Japanese Investors to Tap Into Zimbabwe’s Economic Potential

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on international investors—particularly those from Japan—to take advantage of the vast economic opportunities in Zimbabwe. Speaking at the official Zimbabwe National Day event at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, the President described Zimbabwe as a land of “unmatched possibilities,” and emphasized that the nation is open for investment, trade, tourism, and innovation.

Highlighting the country’s promising sectors—including mining, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, ICT, and tourism—Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is undergoing a transformation towards becoming a modern and industrialised economy within the next five years.

“We are inviting our friends from Japan and around the world to work with us in shaping a future of shared prosperity,” said President Mnangagwa. “Zimbabwe welcomes investment, partnerships, trade, innovation, and tourism that go beyond limits.”

He noted that the country’s economic growth, expected to reach 6% this year, is being driven by structural reforms, infrastructure development, and increased focus on processing raw materials locally, especially in mining and agriculture.

“Our national development strategy is forward-looking and centred on the needs of our people,” he added. “The policy reforms we’ve undertaken have positioned Zimbabwe among the fastest-growing economies in Southern Africa.”

Mnangagwa identified infrastructure rehabilitation, particularly transport networks, energy, ICT, and water systems, as areas with immense potential for foreign investment. He noted that Japanese expertise and experience could play a vital role in these areas.

The President also spotlighted Zimbabwe’s mining sector as a key investment draw, with rich deposits of precious metals, stones, hydrocarbons, and other industrial minerals. He stressed the government’s push for value addition and beneficiation as part of a broader industrialisation drive.

During the Expo, Zimbabwe signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Japanese firms in the motor industry—a deal Mnangagwa said could significantly boost the country’s public transport system and create regional economic benefits.

“Japan’s strength in innovation, science, and technology aligns well with Zimbabwe’s goals,” he said. “We are eager to partner with Japanese investors to fast-track our industrial and technological advancement.”

He also emphasized agriculture as a major sector for partnership, particularly in climate-resilient farming, irrigation, and mechanisation. The President commended Japan’s support for projects like the Nyakomba Irrigation Scheme, which has strengthened food security and rural livelihoods.

“We’re constructing more dams and need investment in irrigation infrastructure and agricultural machinery,” said Mnangagwa. “Such developments will help us expand the land under irrigation and improve productivity.”

Turning to tourism, the President promoted Zimbabwe’s world-renowned attractions such as Victoria Falls and its abundant wildlife. He expressed optimism that post-Expo engagements would help boost Japanese tourist arrivals.

“Victoria Falls—also known as Mosi oa Tunya, or ‘The smoke that thunders’—is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World,” he said. “Zimbabwe is home to vast wildlife diversity and expansive national parks that cover about 70% of the country’s land.”

He pointed out that Zimbabwe has the world’s second-largest elephant population and a growing rhino population, making the country a premier destination for safari tourism.

On the sidelines of the Expo, Zimbabwe hosted its first-ever Zimbabwe–Japan Business Forum, which the President described as a meaningful platform for business leaders from both nations to explore mutually beneficial partnerships.

He also advocated for deeper collaboration in education and innovation, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence, fintech, robotics, and data science. With over 60% of Zimbabwe’s population under 30, he said the country is poised to benefit greatly from investments in human capital.

President Mnangagwa was joined by several senior officials, including Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira and Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Martin Rushwaya. Japanese government representatives were also in attendance.

Expo 2025, which runs until October 13, has drawn participation from 158 countries and seven international organizations. Zimbabwe’s pavilion has been among the most popular, offering immersive experiences that showcase the country’s investment prospects and technological vision.