Presidential Affairs
Government Disburses ZiG14bn to Local Authorities Under Devolution Programme
Government is set to disburse more than ZiG14 billion (about US$518 million) to local authorities this year under the devolution and decentralisation programme, pushing national spending on devolution to 4,83 percent of total Government revenue.
This increased allocation brings Zimbabwe closer to meeting the constitutional requirement of at least five percent of nationally collected revenue being transferred annually to lower tiers of Government.
According to Treasury’s 2026 Infrastructure Investment Programme, the latest allocation represents one of the largest annual commitments to devolution since the programme’s launch in 2018 and is expected to fast-track the implementation of community-based infrastructure projects across the country.
Treasury projections indicate that devolution funding will continue to grow significantly over the medium term. Allocations are forecast to rise to ZiG25 billion (US$926 million) in 2027 and ZiG36 billion (US$1,33 billion) in 2028, nearly tripling within three years.
Devolution is provided for under Sections 264 and 301 of the Constitution, which seek to decentralise decision-making, development planning and financial resources from central Government to provincial and local authorities. The framework aims to promote balanced development, reduce regional inequalities and empower communities to drive their own socio-economic progress.
Under this arrangement, local authorities receive funding to support infrastructure development, service delivery and local economic initiatives in sectors such as education, health, water and sanitation, roads and public amenities.
Treasury noted that during the first phase of the National Development Strategy (NDS1), several high-impact projects were successfully completed using devolution funds, while others remain at various stages of implementation.
However, the ministry acknowledged that progress has occasionally been slowed by delays in the release of funds, largely due to limited fiscal space and competing national priorities.
Despite these challenges, Government is now working on establishing a predictable cash-flow framework for Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (IGFTs) to ensure timely and consistent disbursement of funds to local authorities, thereby improving project completion rates.
Going forward, priority will be placed on finalising ongoing projects before approving new ones. Treasury also plans to strengthen the technical, financial and institutional capacity of local authorities to enhance effective service delivery.
Under the 2026–2028 medium-term framework, major urban centres and provinces are set to receive substantial funding increases. Harare, for example, is projected to receive ZiG669 million in 2026, rising to ZiG1,6 billion by 2028, while Bulawayo’s allocation is expected to grow from ZiG153 million in 2026 to ZiG386 million in 2028.
Provincial allocations are also set to rise sharply, with Manicaland, Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland East each receiving more than ZiG1,4 billion in 2026, with further increases projected through 2028. Similar upward trends are forecast for Mashonaland West, Midlands, Masvingo, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South.
Presenting the 2026 National Budget, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said Government would continue empowering local authorities through the Local Economic Development (LED) Programme to reduce dependence on central Government funding.
“Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers will remain focused on supporting development, with particular emphasis on improving the quality and accessibility of public services,” Prof Ncube said.
He added that the finalisation of the Devolution Act and alignment of regulatory and institutional frameworks with the Constitution would enable full implementation of the devolution agenda.
Priority projects for 2026 include the completion of composite office blocks in Mutoko, Siakobvu and Wedza, refurbishment of public buildings and the rollout of urban renewal programmes.
Since the introduction of devolution in 2018, Government has channelled billions of dollars to local authorities, leading to the construction of schools, clinics, roads, water infrastructure and community facilities, particularly in previously marginalised areas.
The sharp increase in funding from 2026 signals a renewed push to entrench devolution as a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s development strategy under NDS2, with the goal of achieving inclusive and sustainable growth nationwide.
Presidential Affairs
Zimbabwe Strengthens Global Tourism Ties Following High-Level UN Visit
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to growing its tourism sector after hosting Shaikha Al Nowais, the newly appointed Secretary-General of UN Tourism, in Harare.
Speaking after the meeting, President Mnangagwa described the visit as a great honour, highlighting its significance for both Zimbabwe and the global tourism community.
Ms. Al Nowais’ appointment marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first woman to lead the organisation in its 50-year history.
The discussions focused on strengthening Zimbabwe’s position as a leading global tourism destination. President Mnangagwa emphasized the country’s vast potential, from its natural attractions to its rich cultural heritage, noting that tourism remains a key pillar for economic growth.
“We discussed enhancing Zimbabwe’s standing as a premier global destination and harnessing sustainable tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation,” said the President.
Zimbabwe has in recent years intensified efforts to promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that growth in the sector benefits local communities while preserving the environment.
Collaboration with UN Tourism is expected to play a critical role in achieving these goals through international partnerships, investment opportunities, and global marketing initiatives.
President Mnangagwa also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to working closely with international stakeholders to showcase Zimbabwe’s unique appeal.
“Zimbabwe remains committed to collaborating closely with UN Tourism to showcase the beauty and hospitality of our nation to the world,” he added.
The visit by Ms. Al Nowais is seen as a strategic step toward strengthening Zimbabwe’s visibility on the global tourism map, while also aligning the country with international best practices in sustainable tourism development.
Presidential Affairs
Zim, Botswana Push Economic Agenda
Zimbabwe and Botswana have reaffirmed their long-standing diplomatic and economic relations following the Fifth Session of the Zimbabwe-Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC), hosted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare.
President Mnangagwa said the high-level meeting with Botswana President Advocate Duma Boko marks a shift toward stronger economic cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

“The outcomes of this Session are both instructive and forward-looking. They demonstrate our shared resolve to transform our longstanding political relations into a more dynamic, results-driven economic partnership,” he said.
The Zimbabwean leader emphasized that agreements signed at the BNC must now deliver tangible results, particularly in trade, investment and infrastructure development.
“The agreements… must now serve as instruments for accelerated trade, enhanced investment flows, industrial collaboration and sustainable development,” he added.
Key priorities include the operationalisation of the Plumtree/Ramokgwebana One-Stop Border Post, removal of non-tariff barriers and expansion of cross-border infrastructure to improve trade efficiency.
Earlier, President Boko highlighted the deep historical ties between Zimbabwe and Botswana, describing the relationship as a foundation for shared prosperity.
“These ties continue to provide a firm foundation upon which we advance our common aspirations for prosperity, stability and sustainable development,” he said.
He noted that the Bi-National Commission remains a critical platform for cooperation in sectors such as trade, agriculture, energy, health and security.
The two leaders agreed that regional cooperation within SADC is essential in addressing global economic challenges, improving trade flows and boosting investment.
With increased focus on implementation, private sector participation and infrastructure development, the Zimbabwe-Botswana partnership is expected to play a key role in advancing regional integration and economic growth in Southern Africa.
Presidential Affairs
Precision Meets Pride: President’s Cup Day 2 Delivers High Stakes Action
Day 2 of the President’s Cup delivered exactly what golf fans had hoped for , high-quality competition, emotional swings, and a few talking points that extended beyond the fairways.

After a tense opening day, both teams returned with renewed intensity, fully aware that Day 2 often shapes the trajectory of the entire tournament.
The format brought out aggressive play, with captains opting for bold pairings in both foursomes and fourballs, a move that paid off in some matches but backfired in others.
On the course, the level of golf remained exceptional.

Several matches went down to the final holes, with clutch putting and precise approach shots proving decisive.
The greens, however, became a central issue. Players from both sides were seen struggling with pace and reading subtle breaks, sparking quiet complaints about consistency.
A few missed short putts in key moments highlighted just how tricky conditions had become.
Weather also played its part. Changing wind conditions throughout the day made club selection unpredictable, forcing players to constantly adjust strategies.
While some adapted brilliantly, others faltered under pressure, leading to costly mistakes that shifted momentum between the teams.
Beyond the play itself, officiating decisions and rules interpretations began to draw attention.
There were moments of uncertainty regarding drop procedures and relief situations, leading to brief delays and visible frustration among players.
Though none escalated into major disputes, they added an extra layer of tension to an already competitive environment.
Team dynamics were another key storyline.
Certain pairings showed clear chemistry, feeding off each other’s energy and lifting their performances when it mattered most.
In contrast, a few partnerships appeared out of sync, struggling to find rhythm and ultimately dropping valuable points.
As the day progressed, momentum swung back and forth, keeping spectators on edge.
Every hole seemed to carry increased significance, and the pressure was evident in both the body language and decision-making of the players.
By the end of Day 2, the scoreboard reflected just how closely contested the competition remains.
Neither side has managed to establish a decisive lead, setting up what promises to be a thrilling continuation.
However, alongside the excitement, questions linger. Course conditions, officiating clarity, and player fatigue are all emerging as factors that could influence the outcome moving forward.
With everything still to play for, Day 3 now looms large.
If the intensity and drama of the first two days are anything to go by, the President’s Cup is far from decided , and the best may still be yet to come.
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