Current Affairs
SMEs Have Transformed the Economy: Min Mutsvangwa
As the nation commemorated SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, our News Editor Itai Mazire (IM) sat down with the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (SMEs), Minister Monica Mutsvangwa (MM), to discuss how the Second Republic’s policies have enabled the sector to thrive despite sanctions.
Minister Mutsvangwa shared insights on the government’s efforts to propel SMEs forward, which now contribute over 70 percent of the country’s total manufacturing output.
IM: Zimbabwe has been under sanctions for the past two decades, and a new industrial revolution is underway under President Mnangagwa to attain an upper-middle-income economy. Your Ministry has shown resilience in transforming the economy under these punitive measures. How has the Ministry crafted a raft of measures to win this war for Zimbabwe?
MM: It is pleasing to note that even under the prevailing economic sanctions, the SME sector over the past two decades has demonstrated remarkable resilience, innovation, and adaptability, becoming a key agent of transformation in the national economy.
SMEs have been instrumental in contributing to employment creation, poverty reduction, manufacturing growth, and rural industrialisation, thereby driving inclusive and sustainable economic development across the country.
IM: How can we tell that this has been achieved, and what evidence or authoritative information shows that SMEs have played a pivotal role in transforming the economy?
MM: The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) Manufacturing Sector Survey of 2025 reveals that SMEs are now the bedrock and pillar of economic growth, accounting for the majority of enterprises operating within the manufacturing sector.
In fact, most industries in Zimbabwe are SMEs by definition, and their increasing participation has substantially boosted the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP. According to the same survey, SMEs now contribute more than 79.75 percent of the country’s total manufacturing output, underscoring their vital role in sustaining industrial activity and driving economic recovery.
IM: How can we tell the nation that SMEs are playing a pivotal role in economic transformation, which has seen millions of people under your Ministry being productive and bolstering the country’s Vision 2030?
MM: SMEs have diversified their operations, and their participation now spans multiple value chain production processes, including agriculture, iron and steel, furniture, leather, engineering, chemicals, plastics, clothing, and food processing.
These enterprises are at the forefront of import substitution, producing high-quality goods such as furniture, leather products, bolts and nuts, grinding mills, mining equipment, domestic and industrial chemicals, plastic packaging materials, clothing, and food products, among many others. This resilience has not only cushioned communities from the adverse effects of sanctions but has also strengthened domestic industries, reinforced local value chains, and promoted inclusive economic participation across all sectors.
IM: We understand a raft of measures is being implemented by the Ministry to promote SMEs to sell their products on the global market. How is this initiative progressing under the Second Republic?
MM: A key pillar of the Ministry’s success has been facilitating training and capacity building for SMEs.
The Ministry has also made significant progress in improving access to markets for SMEs. This year alone, the Ministry mobilised producers from 51 SMEs across the country to exhibit at the recently held Japan World Expo, showcasing Zimbabwean innovation and craftsmanship on the global stage. Furthermore, the Ministry continues to collaborate with development partners to position SMEs to take full advantage of emerging opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In response to the remarkable growth of SMEs, there has been a significant increase in the demand for business infrastructure, including trading marts, factory shells, and manufacturing spaces. To address this, the Ministry, through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) with local authorities, development partners, and the private sector, is spearheading the development and refurbishment of SME workspaces across the country.
2026 a year of Brick by Brick
Itai Mazire
The Ministry of Local Government has taken significant strides in 2025 to provide housing units for thousands of war veterans and youths. This initiative is poised to transform lives and foster sustainable communities across the nation.
Under the leadership of Minister Daniel Garwe, the ministry has prioritized housing as a fundamental human right, recognizing the sacrifices made by war veterans and the potential of the youth to contribute to national development. “We owe it to our heroes and the next generation to ensure they have access to secure, affordable housing,” Garwe stated. “This initiative is not just about building homes; it’s about building futures.”
In a collaborative effort with both public and private sectors, the ministry has launched several housing projects aimed at fast-tracking the construction of affordable units. “By working together with various partners, we are accelerating our housing delivery mechanisms to meet the urgent needs of these communities,” Garwe explained.
The impact of this housing initiative is already evident, as hundreds of families are now moving into newly constructed homes designed to provide modern amenities while being cost-effective. “This project signifies hope and stability for many; it’s a step towards restoring dignity for our veterans and empowering our youth,” he added.
Moreover, the ministry’s approach includes providing support services, such as financial literacy programs and job training, to ensure that beneficiaries can sustain their new living environments. “We want to ensure that these housing solutions translate into real opportunities for growth and self-sufficiency,” Garwe emphasized.
The Ministry of Local Government continues to uphold its commitment to social justice and economic empowerment, it is setting a precedent for future housing policies. With unwavering determination, the ministry is not only addressing immediate housing needs but also fostering a spirit of community resilience and solidarity for 2025 and beyond.
Current Affairs
Championing Service Delivery and Housing Development Ahead of Year-End – Minister Garwe
Itai Mazire
As the year draws to a close, Honourable Daniel Garwe, Minister of Local Government and Public Works, has emerged as a transformative force in local governance.
Under his stewardship, the ministry has made significant strides in implementing service delivery standards, with the focus now shifting to the ambitious Minimum Service Delivery Standards 2 (MSDS2).
Honourable Garwe said recent developments have addressed key areas of community concern, notably efficient refuse collection and enhanced water services in Harare. “We have worked tirelessly to improve service delivery; our residents deserve reliable and consistent access to essential services.”
A hallmark of Honourable Garwe’s tenure has been fostering collaboration between local authorities, bringing together councillors from the ruling party and the opposition to work in harmony.
“Uniting our local governance structures is crucial. It is about serving our communities collectively, and together we can effectively address the challenges they face,” said Honourable Garwe.
The enhancement of traditional leadership roles has also been a focal point.
“Traditional leaders are vital to our society. By uplifting their roles, we are ensuring that community voices are heard and integrated into our decision-making processes.”
The introduction of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards (MSDS) has set a new precedent, making quality service provision an expectation for residents.
“We are proud of our successful implementation of the first set of delivery standards, and the upcoming MSDS2 will further elevate the quality of life for all citizens,” he said.
In an effort to empower young people and honour veterans of the liberation struggle, the ministry is developing housing stands aimed at creating equitable opportunities. “It is our responsibility to ensure that the youth and veterans have the chance to secure a future through home ownership,” said Honourable Garwe.
He said the importance of private sector participation in enhancing service delivery has played a significant role. “Collaboration with the private sector is essential if we want to bring innovation and efficiency into our local authorities,” said Honourable Garwe.
As 2025 ends, Honourable Garwe’s initiatives reflect a commitment not just to improvement, but to a comprehensive approach to urban management and community welfare.
“Our vision is clear: a united, functioning local government that prioritises every citizen. We are just getting started.”
Harare — One person is feared dead after a Toyota D4D truck plunged into the Mukuvisi River near the Trabablas Interchange today.
The incident occurred during what was reportedly a routine drive, which suddenly turned tragic when the vehicle veered off the road and landed in the river. Emergency services attended the scene, while investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing.
More details to Follow:
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