VP Chiwenga’s India Visit Sparks Economic Optimism and Diamond Sector Revival

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga (Image Source)

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s recent visit to India has been hailed as a strategic milestone in Zimbabwe’s push for industrialization and economic transformation. Leading a high-level delegation to the 20th India-Africa Business Conclave, Chiwenga focused on forging partnerships in diamond beneficiation, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Diamond Beneficiation Prospects

In Gujarat, Vice President Chiwenga met with executives from Hari Krishna Exports, one of the world’s largest diamond processors. Zimbabwe, rich in rough diamonds, seeks to move up the value chain by establishing local cutting and polishing facilities.

“We export rough diamonds to India, but we must now capture more value domestically,” VP Chiwenga said.

Hari Krishna chairman Savjibhai Dholakia expressed enthusiasm, adding:

“We are willing to work with Zimbabwe and plan to visit soon to explore joint ventures.”

Agriculture and Dairy Lessons

Vice President Chiwenga also toured Sumul Dairy and the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), drawing inspiration from India’s cooperative dairy model. He proposed replicating this system in Zimbabwe to empower smallholder farmers.

“India’s dairy success shows how village-level businesses can thrive. We aim to adopt similar models,” Chiwenga said.

Delegation and Key Areas of Focus

The VP was accompanied by:

• Prof. Paul Mavima (Skills Audit)

• Hon. Sleiman Kwidini (Health)

• Hon. Simelisizwe Sibanda (Higher Education)

Their mission was to secure practical outcomes in cotton processing, diamond beneficiation, and agro-industrial partnerships.

Ambassador Stella Nkomo described the visit as:

“Pivotal in our quest to attract investment into Zimbabwe.”

She emphasized the importance of industrial visits and high-level meetings in building trust and showcasing Zimbabwe’s potential.

Economic Outlook

Zimbabwe’s mining sector aims to reach US$12 billion by 2030. Diamond value addition could contribute significantly, creating jobs and reducing poverty.

Economist Dr. Prosper Chitambara noted:

“This visit signals a shift from raw exports to beneficiation. It’s a step toward sustainable economic growth.”