New AfDB Country Manager presents credentials - pledges expanded collaboration with Zimbabwe

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Amon Murwira, has received credentials from the new African Development Bank (AfDB) Country Manager for Zimbabwe, Eyerusalem Fasika, marking the beginning of a renewed phase of cooperation between Zimbabwe and the continental lender.

Speaking after presenting her credentials, Fasika reaffirmed the Bank's commitment to supporting the Government and people of Zimbabwe, particularly through the ongoing arrears‑clearance and debt‑resolution engagement process.

"The Bank's assistance will remain firmly aligned with Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 2 and the AfDB's own strategic frameworks, including its Ten‑Year Strategy and four cardinal priority areas. These priorities guide the Bank's investments across the continent and are aimed at fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development," she said.

Fasika noted that the AfDB's interventions in Zimbabwe span key sectors such as agriculture, energy, social services and private‑sector development - areas she said are central to accelerating economic transformation and improving livelihoods.

She added that the Bank's support is aligned with broader continental and global development blueprints, including Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring Zimbabwe's development trajectory remains in sync with Africa's long‑term vision and global commitments.

Fasika also commended the Government for achieving milestones that led to the signing of a Staff‑Monitored Programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), describing it as an important step toward strengthening macroeconomic stability and building international confidence.

"The AfDB will continue to back Zimbabwe's reform agenda, particularly economic reforms, while maintaining active engagement on arrears clearance. The Bank also plans to expand key sector interventions as part of its ongoing partnership with the Government," she said.

The AfDB is currently reviewing the completion report of its previous engagement with Zimbabwe. The findings will guide the formulation of the Bank's next three‑year strategy to ensure future collaboration remains responsive to national priorities and delivers meaningful impact.

The meeting reaffirmed the strong and longstanding partnership between Zimbabwe and the African Development Bank.