Warriors midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has apologised after conceding a late penalty as Zimbabwe lost 3–2 to South Africa, exiting the Africa Cup of Nations at the group stage ( image source ) HARARE — Warriors midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has apologised to Zimbabweans after conceding a late penalty that proved decisive in Zimbabwe’s 3–2 defeat to South Africa in their Group B Africa Cup of Nations match on Monday, a result that confirmed the Warriors’ exit from the tournament. Zimbabwe were level at 2–2 deep into the second half when Nakamba was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the penalty area. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded South Africa a spot kick, which Oswin Appollis converted in the 82nd minute to send Bafana Bafana into the knockout stages. Speaking after the match, Nakamba accepted responsibility for the incident and addressed supporters directly. “I am sorry to my country, to my teammates and to everyone in Zimbabwe,” he said. “It’s life. We lose as a team and hopefully we will soldier on and learn from the mistakes. It’s part of life.” The match had been closely contested, with Zimbabwe showing resilience after falling behind twice. South Africa took an early lead through Tshepang Moremi, whose deflected effort looped over goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Zimbabwe responded in the 19th minute when Tawanda Maswanhise weaved past defenders before scoring from range. South Africa regained the advantage shortly after the break, with Lyle Foster heading over Arubi following a moment of defensive hesitation. Zimbabwe once again responded, restoring parity and setting up a tense final phase before the controversial penalty decision swung the match in South Africa’s favour. An own goal by Aubrey Modiba reduced the deficit and sparked late pressure from the Warriors in stoppage time, but South Africa held firm to secure the victory. Zimbabwe coach Mario Marinica said the result highlighted the fine margins at international level. “At this level of competition, every mistake is punished,” Marinica said. “We knew South Africa would have spells of dominance. They are comfortable on the ball, and we tried to exploit the spaces when they appeared.” He added that Zimbabwe had remained competitive for large periods of the match. “In transition, we were dangerous and that allowed us to stay in the contest. But we needed to stay organised, win our duels and be strong on second balls throughout.” Reaction to Nakamba’s penalty was mixed among supporters on social media. While some expressed frustration at the decisive moment, others urged fans not to single out an individual in a team sport, commending the midfielder for taking responsibility publicly. The result saw South Africa finish second in Group B with six points to secure qualification for the knockout stages. Zimbabwe finished bottom of the group with one point and exit the tournament.

Government has launched national databases to mobilise retired professionals and diaspora skills ( image source ) HARARE — Government has launched two national databases aimed at harnessing the skills, experience and expertise of retired professionals and Zimbabweans living in the diaspora, in a move officials say will unlock critical human-capital resources to accelerate economic growth, innovation and service delivery under Vision 2030. The databases were unveiled in Harare on Tuesday by the Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Professor Paul Mavhima, who described the initiative as a strategic shift in how Zimbabwe identifies, organises and deploys its intellectual assets. He said the country possesses a deep pool of skills that has remained largely untapped due to the absence of a centralised system. “Zimbabwe is richly endowed with skills, experience and knowledge,” Prof Mavhima said. “Many retired professionals still carry invaluable institutional memory, while Zimbabweans in the diaspora are excelling globally in sectors such as engineering, health, ICT, finance and science. Until now, there has been no coordinated mechanism to systematically map and mobilise these capabilities.” He said the new platforms are designed to transform previously fragmented and informal expertise into strategic national assets that can support economic planning, sector coordination and targeted interventions across both the public and private sectors. The initiative aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy frameworks (NDS1 and NDS2), and the Education 5.0 philosophy, which prioritises innovation, industrialisation and problem-solving rooted in national development needs. Officials said the databases will strengthen skills planning, improve deployment for priority projects and enable rapid mobilisation of specialists for short-term assignments, advisory roles and mentorship programmes. Under the framework, retired professionals will be invited to register their qualifications, areas of experience and availability for consultancy or mentorship. Diaspora participants will submit information on their specialisations, geographic location and willingness to contribute either remotely or through in-country engagements. The databases are expected to feature search and matching functions, allowing ministries, state-owned enterprises and private firms to identify and engage suitable expertise efficiently. Stakeholders welcomed the move but stressed the importance of effective implementation. Business groups said the databases could significantly reduce skills gaps in critical sectors if supported by incentives for short-term deployments and simplified contracting processes. Civil society organisations called for strong data protection measures, transparency in selection and deployment, and merit-based engagement to avoid politicisation. Analysts said the long-term success of the initiative will depend on sustained funding, strong governance structures and integration with existing human-resource planning systems. They also highlighted the need for monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to measure the impact of deployed expertise on service delivery, productivity and project outcomes. Government officials said the platforms are expected to become a central tool for national development planning, enabling Zimbabwe to actively leverage its retired professionals and diaspora workforce as partners in industrialisation, innovation and public-sector reform as the country advances towards Vision 2030.

ZNA Commander Lt Gen Asher Tapfumaneyi has reaffirmed the army’s commitment to national stability, saying peace and security are vital for investment confidence and economic growth ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, saying national stability remains critical to sustaining investor confidence and economic development. Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi made the remarks during a courtesy call on Acting President Colonel (Rtd) Dr Kembo Mohadi at Munhumutapa Offices on Monday. He said discussions centred on strengthening coordination among the country’s security institutions to safeguard peace and stability. “The emphasis was on coordination and cooperation among commanders of the security forces — the army, air force, police, prison services and the Central Intelligence Organisation,” Tapfumaneyi said. He noted that enhanced inter-agency collaboration was particularly important given recent leadership changes within the defence forces. Both he and the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are newly appointed, making coordination a key priority. “Coordination is very important so that we secure the stability of this country and ensure that Zimbabweans can live and conduct business in a peaceful environment,” he said. Tapfumaneyi said the visit also followed established protocol after his appointment, which requires newly appointed commanders to pay courtesy calls on appointing authorities. “As is tradition, after appointment we pay courtesy calls on the appointing authorities, starting with the President, then the Vice Presidents, and proceeding to the Minister and Secretary for Defence,” he said. Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi assumed command of the ZNA last month following the promotion of General Emmanuel Matatu to Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the retirement of General (Rtd) Phillip Valerio Sibanda. Government has repeatedly emphasised that strong coordination within the security sector is a foundation for economic recovery, investor confidence and long-term national development, with peace and stability viewed as essential enablers of growth.

Zimbabwean writer Gerald Shorayi has released a children’s book, Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure, showcasing Zimbabwe’s landscapes, heritage and wildlife through storytelling ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwean writer Gerald Shorayi, also known as G Boss the Poet, has released a children’s novel titled Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure, a story that blends imaginative storytelling with references to Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural heritage. Set partly in Chirinda Forest, the book follows the journey of Mukanyawashe, a young baboon whose adventures introduce young readers to various locations across Zimbabwe. Written primarily for children, the narrative combines fantasy and educational elements to promote curiosity about the country’s environment, wildlife and history. Shorayi has an extensive academic background, having studied at the University of Zimbabwe, Renmin University of China, Beijing Institute of Technology and Beijing Normal University. He holds Master’s degrees in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language and Public Management. While studying in China, he developed a strong interest in folktales and narrative-based learning, influences that are evident in his children’s writing. His previous publications include Chikuni Chempangara, Hadyana, Bhanan’ana reNhorimbo, Art is Life and The Bleeding Tree. In Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure, the central character dreams of seeing Zimbabwe from the air. This leads to a fictional twist in which Mukanyawashe discovers wings that allow him to travel beyond his forest home. During his journey, Mukanyawashe encounters challenges and receives guidance from Hungweyashe, a fish eagle who accompanies him across the country. The story references several iconic locations, including Mutarazi Falls, Nyanga, Mana Pools, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Matobo Hills, Great Zimbabwe and Gonarezhou. Through these encounters, the character gains insight into the country’s landscapes, wildlife and historical sites. At the conclusion of the story, Mukanyawashe returns to Chirinda Forest and gives up the wings, bringing the journey full circle. The book uses storytelling as a tool to introduce young readers to Zimbabwe’s geography and heritage, while encouraging interest in conservation, history and domestic tourism.

Stakeholders in transport and mining have welcomed new laws reserving key economic sectors for locals ( image source ) HARARE — Stakeholders in the transport and mining sectors have welcomed the promulgation of laws reserving certain sectors of the economy exclusively for local citizens, describing the move as a long-overdue intervention to protect indigenous operators. The statutory instrument prohibits foreign nationals from participating in designated reserved sectors, including retail, pharmaceuticals, freight forwarding, passenger transport and artisanal mining. Government says the policy is intended to safeguard local participation while redirecting foreign investment towards higher-value economic activities. Zimbabwe Indigenous Transporters Association (ZITA) chairperson Mr Simon Gambiza said the new regulations would allow local operators to reclaim lost ground in the transport industry. He noted that large mining companies had increasingly relied on their own transport subsidiaries, sidelining indigenous players. “Government has now acted, allowing local transporters to return to business and participate meaningfully in the sector,” Gambiza said. The Zimbabwe Union of Drivers and Conductors (ZUDAC) also welcomed the move, saying foreign nationals had come to dominate the passenger transport sector. Secretary-General Mr Frederick Magumamhinga said the policy would protect local operators and help curb cartel-like practices. “Foreigners had taken over the passenger transport business, limiting opportunities for locals. Some cartels were even forming, so Government has done well to ensure locals can fully participate in the economy,” he said. In the mining sector, the reservation of artisanal and small-scale mining for local citizens has been viewed as a boost to an industry that contributes about 70 percent of Zimbabwe’s gold output. Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) president Ms Henrietta Rushwaya said the policy would strengthen the sector’s performance. “This will grow the contribution of artisanal miners, who have already surpassed their targets this year. Maximum local citizen participation is good for the sector, while foreign investors can move up the value chain to make more meaningful contributions,” she said. Government officials say reserving entry-level sectors for locals will promote citizen empowerment, while encouraging foreign capital to focus on beneficiation, industrialisation and infrastructure development. Analysts agree the policy could help rebalance economic participation and empower communities, but caution that effective enforcement and support for local operators will be critical for the policy to succeed.

CZR has welcomed Zimbabwe’s reserved sector policy under SI 215 of 2025, saying it protects local businesses while promoting balanced and productive foreign investment ( image source ) HARARE — The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) has welcomed Government’s reserved sector policy, saying the new regulations strike a balance between protecting local businesses and allowing structured, high-impact foreign investment. The policy is contained in Statutory Instrument 215 of 2025, issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. It outlines economic sectors reserved for Zimbabwean citizens while setting clear participation thresholds for foreign investors in non-reserved areas of the economy. Under the regulations, 13 sectors are reserved exclusively for local participation. These include artisanal and small-scale mining; transport services such as taxis and car hire; barber shops and beauty salons; bakeries; employment agencies; customs clearing; pharmaceutical retailing; real estate agencies; borehole drilling; and arts and crafts. Foreign-owned businesses already operating in these sectors are required to progressively reduce their shareholding, transferring at least 75 percent ownership to Zimbabwean citizens within three years, at a minimum rate of 25 percent per year. In a statement, CZR president Mr Denford Mutashu said the policy reflects a deliberate effort to empower citizens while safeguarding long-term economic growth. “These regulations preserve specific economic spaces for Zimbabwean citizens, while ensuring that foreign investment is directed towards high-impact and capital-intensive sectors that support industrialisation,” Mutashu said. CZR also welcomed the introduction of minimum investment and employment thresholds for foreign firms operating in non-reserved sectors, describing them as a way to ensure that foreign direct investment delivers measurable economic value. Under the new framework, foreign investors in retail and wholesale trade are required to invest a minimum of US$20 million and employ at least 200 people. In grain milling, the threshold is US$25 million with a minimum workforce of 50 employees, while haulage and logistics firms must invest at least US$10 million and employ 100 workers. The retailers’ body said the thresholds are designed to promote meaningful participation that contributes to job creation, industrial growth and supply-chain development. CZR also expressed support for provisions requiring manufacturers to distribute products through locally owned wholesale and retail channels, arguing that this strengthens domestic value chains and broadens participation by Zimbabwean businesses. “This provision supports local traders and ensures broader participation by Zimbabwean businesses across distribution networks,” the organisation said. Mutashu said the reserved sector policy aligns with Government’s broader objectives of inclusive growth, citizen empowerment and sustainable economic development. “As retailers, we support this policy direction. It promotes fair competition, protects local enterprise and contributes to a more balanced and resilient economy,” he said.

Government has advanced health sector reforms under the National Development Strategy, focusing on hospital renovations, rural health centres and improved access to healthcare services ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe’s health sector recorded notable progress in 2025 as Government continued implementing reforms under the National Development Strategy (NDS), aimed at improving access to healthcare services and strengthening public health infrastructure across the country. Key initiatives include the Presidential Hospital Renovation Scheme and the continued expansion of rural and high-density health facilities, programmes designed to modernise public hospitals and close service delivery gaps, particularly in underserved communities. Health and Child Care Ministry Secretary Mr Aspect Maunganidze said refurbishment works had commenced at selected public health institutions under a phased implementation plan. “2025 saw a rollout of the Presidential Hospital Renovation Scheme, starting with Parirenyatwa School of Nursing and now Mpilo. The intention is to ensure that central and provincial hospitals have infrastructure that is fit for purpose as we move from NDS1 to NDS2, which is the final phase towards Vision 2030,” Maunganidze said. He said Government was also preparing for the construction of new health centres in Manhize, Paradza, Rudhanda and Bulilima, with building works expected to begin in 2026. At the same time, investments in primary healthcare facilities in rural and high-density areas have continued. Recently commissioned centres include Mataga in Mberengwa, Runyararo, Cowdray Park and Stoneridge. “We commissioned Mataga in Mberengwa in 2025, which completed the first four pilot centres opened over the last two to three years. Groundwork is now in progress for the next four centres planned for rollout in 2026,” Maunganidze said. Government expects the expansion of health facilities to significantly improve access for rural communities by reducing travel distances to health centres from an average of 10 kilometres to about 5 kilometres. In addition to infrastructure development, authorities have decentralised the recruitment of nursing trainees, enabling provinces to play a greater role in the selection process. The decentralised recruitment model is intended to improve staff retention by encouraging trainees to serve in their home districts, addressing long-standing challenges related to human resources in the health sector. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised that strengthening the health sector is critical to national development, particularly in ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations as Zimbabwe advances towards Vision 2030.

Sixteen-year-old Natasha Nkwanda has been crowned Miss NODE Zimbabwe 2025 after a Harare pageant that promotes youth empowerment, social advocacy and mentorship ( image source ) HARARE — Sixteen-year-old model Natasha Nkwanda has been crowned Miss NODE Zimbabwe 2025 following a pageant held on Saturday at Food Nest, Long Cheng Plaza in Harare. The event brought together young models under a platform that blends fashion with social advocacy and youth development. Nkwanda, who represented Fabulous Modelling Agency, emerged winner from a competitive field of contestants. Rutendo Sandra Tazvitya was named First Princess, Celine Makanaka Sharara took the Second Princess position, while Ruvimbo M Chaeza won the People’s Choice Award. Beyond the competition, Nkwanda’s selection reflected her involvement in community initiatives. In the build-up to the pageant, she organised a Christmas outreach programme and donated clothing to 50 children at the Foundation of Hope International Trust orphanage in Epworth. The pageant was organised by NODE – the National Organisation of Development and Empowerment, in partnership with Fabulous Modelling Agency. Organisers said the initiative uses modelling as a platform to promote youth empowerment, mentorship and awareness campaigns, including advocacy against drug trafficking and substance abuse among young people. Fabulous Modelling Agency director Simbarashe Gwavava, who is also a model coach and founder of the Zimbabwe Youth and Cultural Identity Enhancement Trust (ZYCIET), said the pageant aims to position young models as positive role models within their communities. He said Nkwanda’s selection demonstrated a balance between discipline, personal conduct and social awareness. Through ZYCIET, Gwavava has been involved in youth mentorship programmes, modelling training and community outreach activities that include support for orphanages and elderly care institutions. The trust also focuses on promoting cultural identity and personal development among young people. Several models from Fabulous Modelling Agency, including Catherine Wayah, Carren Sakupwanya and Celine Sharara, are continuing to build profiles within the modelling industry. Gwavava said the agency is prioritising long-term development by equipping models with skills in discipline, professionalism and sustainable income-generating activities. Miss NODE Zimbabwe organisers said similar initiatives will continue as part of broader efforts to support youth empowerment, leadership development and positive social engagement.

Government says the temporary halt at the US$1 billion Whi-Zim Cement Plant in Hurungwe is due to EIA compliance and not a withdrawal of support ( image source ) HURUNGWE — Government has clarified that the temporary suspension of construction works at the US$1 billion Whi-Zim Cement Plant in Magunje, Hurungwe District, is part of routine regulatory compliance and does not signal a withdrawal of State support for the project. Authorities said the pause was necessitated by the need for the investor to address outstanding requirements under its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), adding that construction will resume once all conditions have been fully met. Officials stressed that the project remains a priority investment and continues to enjoy Government backing. A Whi-Zim official, Mr David Leo, said the company is implementing measures outlined in the EIA, including compensation for affected communities. “We are working on meeting the set conditions in our Environmental Impact Assessment, including compensation of affected individuals,” he said. “Once operational, we expect to produce at least 1.2 million tonnes of clinker and about 1.8 million tonnes of cement annually.” Local leaders said the project has already delivered tangible benefits through employment creation during the construction phase, with expectations of wider socio-economic gains once operations commence. Chief Chanetsa said the cement plant would be a catalyst for development in the area. “This cement plant brings employment opportunities and economic activity to the area,” he said. “It also improves access to building materials for housing and public infrastructure.” Magunje legislator Honourable Super-Monga Madiro described Whi-Zim as a major development milestone for Hurungwe District, noting its potential to stimulate rural industrialisation. “The project will create employment opportunities and support infrastructure development, contributing to rural economic growth,” he said. Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Marian Chombo reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting investors who comply with regulatory frameworks. “We remain focused on creating an ease-of-doing-business environment,” she said. “We have encouraged the investor to fully comply with Environmental Management Agency requirements so that construction can proceed.” Once completed, Whi-Zim will become the third cement manufacturing facility in Mashonaland West, joining Zimbabwe Huaxin Cement in Zvimba and the Shuntai Investment plant under development in Chegutu. Officials say this will significantly strengthen domestic cement supply, reduce imports, and enhance Zimbabwe’s industrial capacity.

Former Mashonaland West minister Reuben Marumahoko has been acquitted of ARDA fraud charges after the court ruled there was no evidence of misrepresentation or intent ( image source ) CHINHOYI — Former Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Reuben Marumahoko, has been acquitted of fraud charges relating to the alleged abuse of agricultural inputs valued at US$37 950 from the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA). The Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court cleared Marumahoko after ruling that the State had failed to prove the essential elements of fraud. Magistrate Solomon Jenya said the prosecution did not establish misrepresentation or intent to defraud on the part of the accused. Marumahoko was arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) in November 2024 following allegations that he had improperly benefited from ARDA’s commercial farmers’ joint venture programme. The State alleged that he applied for farming inputs claiming capacity to plant 200 hectares of maize under irrigation, but only planted 46 hectares, with the remainder of the inputs allegedly disposed of, resulting in losses to ARDA. According to the prosecution, Marumahoko received 2.5 tonnes of maize seed, 1 300 bags of Compound D fertiliser, and various agro-chemicals under the programme. However, the court heard that production targets were not met. In his defence, Marumahoko told the court that his irrigation infrastructure had been vandalised and that drought conditions further disrupted operations. He denied any misrepresentation, arguing that he acted in good faith and that the shortfall in hectarage planted was due to circumstances beyond his control. Magistrate Jenya accepted the explanation, ruling that operational challenges and unforeseen setbacks did not amount to criminal conduct. The court found no evidence that Marumahoko had deliberately misled ARDA or intended to unlawfully benefit from the inputs. The acquittal brings to an end a case that had drawn public attention due to Marumahoko’s senior political profile. He previously served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and said the allegations had damaged his reputation, expressing relief at being cleared. Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces the principle that fraud charges must be supported by clear proof of intent and misrepresentation. They also note that the case highlights broader challenges facing agricultural production, including drought, vandalism, and infrastructure constraints. For ARDA, the matter has renewed calls for tighter monitoring and accountability mechanisms in input distribution programmes to minimise losses and disputes.

A Bulawayo man has been jailed for failing to pay child maintenance after accumulating US$210 in arrears, highlighting courts’ firm stance on defaulters ( image source ) BULAWAYO — A 34-year-old man from Mahatshula North has been sentenced to six months in prison after failing to comply with a court-ordered child maintenance obligation, accumulating arrears amounting to US$210. Takaedza Togarepi pleaded guilty at the Western Commonage Magistrates’ Court, where Magistrate Jeconia Prince Ncube imposed the sentence. Togarepi will serve three months in prison, while the remaining three months were suspended for three years on condition that he does not commit a similar offence. The suspended portion is further conditional upon him paying US$120 of the outstanding arrears by 16 January. Prosecutor Cathrine Kuzu told the court that on 7 July, Togarepi had been ordered to pay US$70 per month towards the upkeep of his child following an application by his former wife, Thendani Ndlovu (34). The maintenance order required him to continue payments until the child reaches the age of 18. However, the court heard that Togarepi failed to make consistent payments between 30 July and 30 November, resulting in the accumulation of arrears. A police report was subsequently filed, leading to his arrest and appearance before the court. In passing sentence, Magistrate Ncube stressed that child maintenance orders are legally binding and must be respected, warning that failure to comply directly compromises the welfare and wellbeing of children. Child rights advocates say the case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by custodial parents—most often mothers—who are left struggling to meet children’s basic needs when maintenance payments are neglected. Legal experts note that courts are increasingly adopting a firm approach to maintenance defaulters, with custodial sentences being used as a deterrent to enforce accountability and protect children’s rights.

Zimbabwe closes 2025 with a strong economic rebound as inflation falls sharply and key sectors such as agriculture, mining and manufacturing record solid growth ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe is closing 2025 on a strong economic rebound, posting broad-based growth across key sectors following the El Niño-induced slowdown that constrained performance in 2024. Improved macroeconomic management, tighter fiscal discipline and stronger coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities have underpinned the recovery, with inflation easing sharply and productive sectors regaining momentum. One of the most notable developments has been the dramatic decline in inflation. Annual ZiG inflation, which peaked at 95,8 percent in July, fell to 15 percent by December, reflecting improved exchange-rate stability and restrained public spending. The easing of price pressures has restored planning certainty for businesses and households. Economic commentator Tinevimbo Shava said stability was now translating into tangible economic benefits. “When prices are predictable, businesses can plan and households can manage their budgets more effectively,” he said. Agriculture staged a strong recovery in 2025, supported by better rainfall, expanded irrigation infrastructure and improved agronomic practices. The sector is estimated to have grown by 24 percent, strengthening food security, boosting rural incomes and stimulating agro-processing industries. Tobacco production reached record levels, with sales exceeding 350 million kilogrammes and earnings surpassing US$1 billion, supported by more than 108 000 participating farmers. Wheat output also crossed 640 000 tonnes, driven by mechanisation, irrigation expansion and targeted government support. Mining remained a central pillar of growth, with output projected to increase by 7,3 percent. Gold production reached 41,8 tonnes by November, surpassing national targets. Artisanal and small-scale miners contributed significantly to deliveries, aided by ongoing formalisation initiatives. Gold export earnings rose sharply to US$3,76 billion in the first ten months of the year, bolstering foreign-currency inflows and supporting exchange-rate stability. Analyst Namatayi Maeresera said the benefits extended across the economy. “Strong gold earnings support currency stability, which helps contain inflation and benefits the wider economy,” she noted. Manufacturing expanded by an estimated 4,2 percent, supported by improved electricity supply and reduced macroeconomic volatility. Power generation increased by about 6,7 percent, easing production constraints across industry. Growth was also recorded in wholesale and retail trade, financial services and ICT, reflecting improved confidence and stability. Infrastructure development, including the Trabablas Interchange and continued upgrades of major highways, has further enhanced productivity and connectivity. With overall economic growth projected at 6,6 percent in 2025, analysts say Zimbabwe is entering 2026 with stronger resilience anchored in stability, infrastructure investment and sector-wide recovery. If current trends are sustained, the country is expected to consolidate gains and deepen inclusive economic growth in the year ahead.