President Mnangagwa Urges Diplomats to Drive Investment and Boost Exports

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabwe’s diplomatic missions to play a more active role in promoting economic growth by attracting foreign investment, securing export markets and facilitating technology partnerships.

Speaking during an engagement with ambassadors and heads of mission,  President Mnangagwa emphasised the need for Zimbabwe’s foreign policy to deliver tangible economic benefits in line with the country’s Vision 2030 development agenda.

The President’s call comes as Zimbabwe continues efforts to strengthen international relations under its engagement and re-engagement policy, introduced in 2017, with a renewed focus on using diplomatic ties to support economic development.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira said Government was developing legal and policy frameworks to ensure that the country’s diplomatic activities remain aligned with national development priorities.

He said foreign policy was closely linked to Zimbabwe’s economic and security interests, with diplomatic missions expected to prioritise investment mobilisation, technology cooperation and access to international markets.

The proposed legislative framework, alongside strategic plans and operational guidelines, is expected to improve coordination and provide clearer direction for the Ministry’s work.

Murwira stressed the importance of maintaining a unified national position in international engagements, saying: “One nation, one President, one message, one voice.”

Meanwhile, Dean of the Zimbabwe Diplomatic Corps Ambassador Ignatius Mudzimba said diplomats were ready to implement the President’s directives and advance the country’s economic and cultural interests abroad.

He said their efforts would also target partnerships in education, science, innovation and technology to strengthen local production, value addition and the competitiveness of Zimbabwean products in international markets.

Zimbabwe’s participation in regional bodies such as COMESA, together with its preparations for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, is expected to create further opportunities to advance its interests on the global stage.

The success of the diplomatic missions will ultimately be measured by their ability to translate international partnerships into increased trade, investment, technology transfer and business opportunities for Zimbabwe.