Zimbabwe and AfDB Forge Stronger Partnership to Accelerate Inclusive Development

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Reporter

The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national development through closer collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), following a successful 2025 Country Portfolio Performance Review (CPPR) workshop held in Harare. Acting Chief Director in the Ministry of Finance Mrs. Margireta Makuwaza emphasised the alignment of the AfDB’s Country Brief (2024–2026) with Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1, 2021–2025). “Through prioritising governance, accountability and private sector growth, we are laying a solid foundation for the next phase of our development journey under NDS 2, which aims to transform the economy to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030,’’ she said. The CPPR is viewed not merely as an evaluation exercise but as a high-level forum for co-creating solutions, sharing best practices, and building a collective vision for impactful development.AfDB representatives outlined their strategic priorities, highlighting a financing portfolio of US$137 million aimed at fostering inclusive and resilient growth.

Belinda Chesire, AfDB Country Programme Officer, reiterated the importance of the CPPR workshop. “This CPPR workshop is more than just an evaluation; it is a platform to co-create solutions, share knowledge, and build a collective vision for impact,” she said. Over US$40 million has been directed towards credit lines and trade finance facilities, unlocking opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These initiatives are designed to catalyse job creation and diversify the economy. Economist Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi noted the AfDB’s increased engagement with the private sector is a game-changer for Zimbabwe’s SMEs. Through improving access to affordable finance and technical assistance, these facilities are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. She also emphasised the significance of renewable energy projects, particularly solar feasibility studies at Kariba. “This will not only boost energy security but also attract fresh investments into our green economy.”

The workshop culminated in the drafting of a new Country Portfolio Improvement Plan (CPIP), which will serve as a roadmap for project implementation and maximizing development outcomes. This plan will be submitted for approval to the AfDB’s Board Committee on Development Effectiveness and the Government of Zimbabwe. The successful convening of the CPPR workshop has reinforced the commitment between Zimbabwe and the AfDB to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.