mbulelo smpofu
Dereck Goto@dereckgoto
As Zimbabwe transitions into 2025, the nation reflects on a year of remarkable milestones achieved under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, paving the way toward Vision 2030’s goal of an upper-middle-income economy.
Formalising urban housing ownership
Urban housing reforms benefited over 150 000 families living in informal settlements such as Epworth and Caledonia. By issuing title deeds, the government provided residents with legal ownership, enabling them to access home improvement loans. A recent survey showed that 78 percent of beneficiaries plan to upgrade their homes within the next two years.
Infrastructure development: Building Zimbabwe’s future
Zimbabwe made remarkable strides in infrastructure, with 820 km of the Harare-Beitbridge Highway completed. Urban and rural road rehabilitation spanned 1 500km, improving access to markets and reducing travel times by 40 percent in key trade corridors. These projects are anticipated to boost the Gross Domestic Product by 1,8 percent annually through enhanced trade and mobility.
Revolutionising connectivity with Starlink
In May 2024, Zimbabwe approved the licensing of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite Internet service, marking a revolutionary step in digital transformation. Internet penetration rose from 63 percent in 2023 to 75 percent in 2024, with rural schools and clinics among the biggest beneficiaries. Broadband costs fell by 30 percent, enabling access to affordable, high-speed internet. Minister of ICT Jenfan Muswere noted:
“This initiative is a cornerstone in bridging the digital divide and fostering national development.”
Mining sector expansion: A wealth of opportunity
Zimbabwe attracted $1,3 billion in foreign direct investment in lithium, platinum, and gold mining. The construction of value-addition facilities increased mineral exports by 12 percent, with lithium alone contributing $300 million in export earnings. Mining Minister Winston Chitando stated, “We are leveraging our mineral wealth to create jobs and drive sustainable growth, ensuring Zimbabwe remains a key player in the global mining sector.”
Empowering farmers through Land ownership
The Government is set to distribute over 200 000 title deeds to resettled farmers, securing ownership and enabling them to access loans and credit facilities. These deeds are expected to stimulate agricultural productivity. Farmer Tendai Ncube remarked, “Owning this land has transformed my life; I can now plan for the future with confidence.”
Expanding educational access
Seventeen new schools were opened nationwide, including Makumimavi Primary School in Chikomba District, providing access to education for over 12 000 students. Notably, 60 percent of these schools are in rural areas, addressing historical disparities.
Advancing healthcare services
With $25 million raised through the sugar tax, the government procured advanced cancer treatment equipment and allocated funding for centres in Chinhoyi, Gweru, Masvingo, and Mutare. These facilities, expected to serve over 50 000 patients annually, mark a turning point in cancer care accessibility.
A breast cancer survivor noted, “This investment gives hope to thousands like me who previously had no access to treatment.”
Hosting the SADC Summit
Zimbabwe showcased its regional leadership by hosting the SADC Summit in August 2024, with over 1 500 delegates attending. Discussions centred on economic integration and climate resilience. President Mnangagwa remarked, “This summit reaffirms our commitment to a united and prosperous Southern Africa.”
Boosting energy security
Investments in renewable energy and the expansion of Hwange Thermal Power Station added 600 MW to the national grid, reducing power outages by 70 percent. Solar projects in Gwanda and Bikita provided an additional 100 MW, improving energy access for two million households. Zimbabwe now ranks among the top three renewable energy adopters in Africa.
Justice system reform: Abolishing the death penalty
In December 2024, Zimbabwe abolished the death penalty, sparing 62 prisoners on death row. President Mnangagwa, a former death row inmate himself, stated, “This is a profound moment for our nation, aligning Zimbabwe with global human rights norms and affirming the sanctity of life.” The move demonstrates the Government’s commitment to progressive legal reform and human dignity.
Looking ahead
As Zimbabwe enters 2025, the achievements of 2024 provide a robust foundation for further progress. Priorities include advancing industrialisation, empowering youth, bolstering climate resilience, and strengthening regional collaboration. With Vision 2030 as the guiding framework, Zimbabwe is poised for sustained growth and prosperity.
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
