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Zimbabwe is able to resuscitate its economy

17 Jul 2015 at 10:34hrs | Views
Zimbabwe will soon witness economic resuscitation in most of its manufacturing industries as the Government is tirelessly working toward a positive massive reform process. This constructive move was recently announced by Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa in an interview with the CCTV, a Chinese National Broadcaster.

Foreign investment is essential for a country's economic growth and prosperity. Specifically, investment by multinational corporations leads to an increase in standard of living of citizens in the country. There is no doubt that by bringing in foreign investors in the country, economy will be enhanced.

 It is inspiring that the Government has always been willing and sincere to revise some of the economic policies in efforts to lure foreign investors. A true testimony is that of the constructive engagement with the Chinese Government which VP Mnangagwa recently did.

To add on, early this year, President Mugabe told a visiting French delegation that the Indigenization policy related to resource-based operations only. He noted that the 51/49 percent shareholding threshold was in favour of locals relating to resource based sectors only such as the mining sector.  

Also, it is imperative to note that, innovation and start-ups fuel the country's economic growth. Our nation's economy can be rejuvenated through encouraging innovation in all economic sectors. The current economic downturn the country is currently experiencing can be a thing of the past if all our activities are made to support the economic blueprint, Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (Zim-Asset).

It is crucial that the country, through the responsible authorities pursue economic activities that promote and encourage an economic transformation which ensures that there is enough prosperity in achieving Zim-Asset targets.

VP Mnangagwa also said the Government is yet to modify reforms including the social and legislative frameworks, so that Zimbabwe will retain back the glowing economic status that it used be.

In that view, relaxation of trade restrictions will entice foreign direct investment which is necessary for the enhancement of reviving the economy.

When the local industry is rejuvenated, there will be investment into the export industry which will primarily boost the economic productivity of most developing countries, like our country, Zimbabwe. It is heartening that Zimbabwe is a nation vast with natural resources. Through those natural resources, the country will be able to trade with other nations thus, allowing access to new international markets. Truth be told, trade strengthens ties between nations.

In efforts to resuscitate the economy, VP Mnangagwa will also to travel to Europe for a trade and investment promotion which is also meant to attract foreign investors. It is pleasing that despite the agenda of alleged factional politics set by the private media, VP Mnangagwa is seized by the national agenda which is economy resuscitation.

Boosting the county's economy will help in eradicating poverty which is one of the objectives of Zim-Asset.

It is indeed necessary for the Government to create a conducive working environment for those local and foreign investors who may want to do business in country.

If the Chinese government managed to transform from an impoverished economy into one of the world's biggest economy, the same can happen to Zimbabwe. Written reports have it that the Chinese government adopted a free market economy and allowed investments to flow freely. This enhanced their economy to develop, hence improving the living standards of their citizens.

In its determined attempt to boost the economy, the Government is also working towards reviving the farming sector. After an internal land audit was done, it was noted that some farmers occupy vast amounts of land which exceeds the maximum hectares. Most of these farmers are failing to utilize all the allocated land, hence there is need for the Government to reduce the sizes of the farms and allocate other applicant farmers who are on the waiting list.

Apart from relaxation of economic restrictions and constructive engagement with foreign investors Government is also working extremely hard to end corruption. Corruption is one of the factors that have been derailing the fruition of Zim-Asset.

The Government should take advantage of audit results from the Auditor General, Mildred Chisi, and effectively act on all corrupt activities. The responsible authorities should be encouraged to continue arresting those who will be found guilty on the malaise. The Anti-Corruption body should also work efficiently together with the Government in trying to root up corruption as well as plugging all the leaks on fraudulent activities.  

The arrest of former Air Zimbabwe bosses Peter Chikumba, Grace Pfumbidzai and Innocent Mavhunga on corrupt activities should act as an example to all those who will be found guilty.

Nothing is impossible, let's all work toward restoring our economy regardless of tribe, gender or political affiliation.

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Chido Chikuni can be contacted at chidochikuni@gmail.com


Source - Chido Chikuni
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