Diplomats Applaud Zimbabwe’s NDS1 Success, Express Confidence in 2030 Vision

Diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe have applauded the country for the successful completion of the first phase of the National Development Strategy (NDS1) and the rollout of NDS2, expressing optimism that Zimbabwe is on course to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030.

The commendations were made during a diplomatic tour of accommodation facilities and a year-end engagement held in Eastlea, Harare, on Wednesday. The event also served as a platform to review bilateral relations and assess development milestones recorded during 2025.

Members of the Diplomatic Corps highlighted Zimbabwe’s policy consistency and commitment to economic and governance reforms under NDS1, noting that the achievements of the first phase have laid a solid foundation for the second phase of the national development agenda.

Ghana’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Bonaventure Adjavor, said the transition from NDS1 to NDS2 demonstrated the Government’s determination to improve the welfare of its citizens.

“Zimbabwe has completed the first phase of its National Development Strategy and is now implementing the second phase. I have confidence in the Government’s efforts to attain upper-middle-income status, which will uplift citizens from poverty and ensure inclusive development,” he said.

Cuban Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Her Excellency Susellys Perez Mesa, also commended the country’s progress, describing the cooperation between Government and citizens as key to the achievements recorded so far.

“I congratulate Zimbabwe on the progress made. The collective will of the Government and the people is commendable, and I hope these efforts will continue to yield positive results for the country,” she said.

Serbian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Radiša Grujić, welcomed the launch of NDS2, saying the blueprint addresses critical sectors and outlines ambitious development projects.

“Congratulations to Zimbabwe for completing NDS1 and launching NDS2. Having been here for over three years, I have seen positive direction in the country’s development, and Serbia remains keen to strengthen cooperation with Zimbabwe,” he said.

Meanwhile, organisers of the event expressed appreciation for the role played by the Diplomatic Corps in supporting community development initiatives across the country.

Executive Director of the Diplomat Media & Business Networking Club, Reginald Chapfunga, said embassies and business partners had contributed significantly to improving livelihoods and fostering international partnerships.

The implementation of NDS2 is expected to build on the gains achieved under NDS1, as Zimbabwe continues to attract international goodwill and support towards its 2030 upper-middle-income vision.