Zimbabwe finalising first-ever economic census

Zimbabwe is in the final stages of completing its first-ever economic census, which will for the first time incorporate detailed data on the informal sector, Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Kudakwashe Mnangagwa, announced yesterday.

Speaking at the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Statistics Committee meeting held in Victoria Falls, Deputy Minister Mnangagwa highlighted the increasing need for accurate, timely, and detailed data to effectively guide policy-making and development initiatives throughout the region.

"I am pleased to share that Zimbabwe is finalising its maiden economic census. This national milestone will provide comprehensive data on the structure and size of the economy, including the informal sector, an often overlooked but vital part of our economy," he said.

He emphasized that the census results will be crucial for shaping policies aimed at stimulating economic growth, fostering decent employment opportunities, and encouraging the formalisation of small businesses, which form a backbone of Zimbabwe's economy.

Deputy Minister Mnangagwa also noted that the economic census will underpin the creation of the Statistical Business Register, a critical tool from which future survey samples will be drawn to improve data accuracy and relevance.

"This initiative aligns fully with Vision 2030, which aspires to transform Zimbabwe into a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society," he added.

The finalisation of this economic census marks a significant step forward in Zimbabwe's efforts to strengthen its data infrastructure and support sustainable economic development.