President Mnangagwa Reaffirms Zimbabwe's Industrial Ambitions at Conference
President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has reiterated the country's goal to become a leading industrial economy in Africa. Speaking at the Zimbabwe Industrialisation Conference and Expo 2026, Mnangagwa outlined a strategy focused on infrastructure development, green industrialization, and regional trade. The event, attended by over 500 delegates, also saw the launch of the State of Industry Report and 2027 Prospects Study. Mnangagwa emphasized the need for modern infrastructure, stable energy, and digital connectivity to boost industrial growth. He called for a whole-of-society approach, urging manufacturers to invest in innovation and financial institutions to provide affordable capital. Zimbabwe's manufacturing sector has shown progress, with capacity utilization rising from 35% in 2019 to 61.2% in 2026. However, the country still imports $2.5 billion worth of manufactured goods, highlighting opportunities for local production. 
