US Investors Eye Zimbabwe’s Energy and Tourism

A U.S. investor delegation is eyeing Zimbabwe’s renewable energy and tourism industries (image source)

A U.S. business delegation has signaled strong interest in Zimbabwe’s renewable energy and tourism sectors, highlighting the country’s untapped potential and strategic location in Southern Africa. Fourteen American investors attended a roundtable in New York on September 15, convened by Zimbabwe’s Embassy, to explore opportunities in solar power, hydroelectricity, and eco-tourism around Victoria Falls.

Foreign Affairs Minister Prof. Amon Murwira led the pitch, underscoring Zimbabwe’s stable political climate and legal reforms designed to attract foreign direct investment. “We are open for business, with transparent procurement processes and competitive tax incentives,” Murwira told The Herald.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s 2024 Investment Climate Statement, Zimbabwe boasts world-class lithium and gold reserves, a literate workforce, and a banking sector undergoing digitization, all of which bode well for investor returns.

Energy sector leaders at the roundtable cited frequent load-shedding as both a challenge and an opportunity. “Zimbabwe’s experience with power shortages means any successful project has an immediate market,” said Mark Reynolds, CEO of Atlanta-based GreenGrid Ventures. He’s scouting sites for a 50 MW solar farm near Gweru.

Tourism operators, meanwhile, emphasized Zimbabwe’s competitive edge after recent improvements to park management and community lodges outside Hwange National Park. “Adventure and cultural tourism demand is rising 15% annually,” noted Sarah Johnson of EcoTrails USA, pointing to visa waivers for U.S. visitors introduced in July 2025.

Despite optimism, concerns linger over land-title clarity and currency volatility. Zimbabwe’s external debt stands at US$9.1 billion, constraining public investment in infrastructure. Investors urged continued dialogue with the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), which has streamlined applications for special economic zones.

“If governance improves, the returns could be significant,” Reynolds said, affirming that early movers stand to gain first-mover advantages.

As follow-up delegations are planned for Johannesburg and Nairobi, Zimbabwean officials aim to solidify memoranda of understanding by year-end, setting the stage for potential multi-million-dollar project launches in 2026.