President Mnangagwa Urges COMESA States To Boost Value Addition And Regional Trade

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on African countries to prioritise value addition, strengthen cross-border partnerships and remove trade barriers to accelerate industrialisation and economic growth across the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).

Speaking at the official opening of the 19th COMESA Business Forum and Exhibition at the Harare International Convention Centre, President Mnangagwa said African countries must move away from exporting raw materials and focus on processing their resources locally.

“The private sector must move beyond exporting raw materials. We must add value right here in Africa focusing heavily on agro-processing, leather, cotton, and the battery value chain,” he said.

The forum is running under the theme, “One Market, One Future: Advancing Inclusive Industrialisation, Investment and Regional Integration in COMESA,” bringing together delegates, financiers and business leaders to explore investment opportunities and promote cooperation among member states.

President Mnangagwa said stronger partnerships between businesses in different countries were essential for building regional value chains and expanding trade.

“True integration means a Zimbabwean agro-processor seamlessly partnering with a Zambian counterpart to supply the region,” he said.

He also highlighted the need to improve border efficiency and transport systems to facilitate the movement of goods across the region.

“Our borders must connect us, not divide us. The modernization of the Beitbridge Border Post stands as a testament to Zimbabwe’s commitment to flawless logistics and free-flowing cross-border trade,” Cde Mnangagwa said.

The President further described COMESA as an important foundation for the wider African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to expand trade among African countries.

“COMESA serves as the vital building block for the wider African Continental Free Trade Area market,” he said.

The exhibition is showcasing innovations and business opportunities across priority regional value chains, including green industries, leather, circular economies, agriculture, manufacturing and technology.

President said the forum came at a critical time as African countries sought to unlock their economic potential and improve the livelihoods of their citizens.

“The timing of this forum is critical. Every strategy we drive this week is rooted in a resolute effort to secure a better life for all our people and fulfill our continent’s true potential,” he said.

He invited investors and business leaders to partner with Zimbabwe across key sectors, including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, energy, information and communication technology, and pharmaceuticals.

“To the captains of industry and financiers: I invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Government relies on your feedback to ensure your capital is safe, secure, and productive. Zimbabwe is ready to partner with you across agriculture, mining, manufacturing, energy, ICT, and pharmaceuticals,” he said.

President Mnangagwa urged participants to use the forum to establish stronger business networks, address barriers to trade and turn regional investment opportunities into practical economic outcomes.

“Let us develop powerful networks, tear down trade barriers, and turn the vast opportunities across COMESA states into tangible business outcomes,” he added.