By 
By Ross Moyo
Zimbabwe’s agriculture is still the backbone of the economy with 40% of national earnings coming from Agri-Business as lithium, nickel, copper and platinum also grow demand.
This was revealed by a report from the Bretton Woods institutions including the World Bank’s senior country economist for Zimbabwe Victor Steenbergen who confirmed this in his presentation on, “Mobilising the Private Sector in Support of Economic Transformation,” at a Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) Business and Economic Outlook Symposium for 2025 held recently.
“Agriculture and agribusiness provide about 40 percent of national earnings, so it is very critical.”
By Ross Moyo
“A growing demand for energy transition minerals, notably lithium, nickel, copper and platinum suggests that this is an opportunity for investment in the mining industry, and Zimbabwe has large platinum and lithium reserves,” he said.
The Senior Country Economist noted Zimbabwe has problems , mainly in legal and regulatory challenges, which can hinder the country’s ability to fully capitalise on its potential despite its vast opportunities.
The World Bank’s top representative cited challenges regarding macro-economic stability, especially the limited access to funding for the private sector and the high cost of doing business in the country, issues which the Government is working at redressing which have not stopped Zimbabwe’s mining, agribusiness and tourism sectors remaining largely untapped, now needing a nudge to the private sector to take advantage of the opportunities to drive economic growth.
According to the Bretton Woods Institution Zimbabwe’s agriculture and agribusiness sectors played a vital role in the country’s economy, providing livelihoods for almost 70 percent of the population and catering approximately 40 percent of Zimbabwe’s export earnings.
Horticulture, earns Zimbabwe larger profit margins and vital areas for beneficiation in the food and beverages industry.
This particular industry has important links with manufacturing industry which creates a valuable multiplier effect, pushing growth in production and creating employment.
Demand creates plenty room in the mining sector, providing a range of highly sought-after global commodities, including gold and Platinum Group Metals (PGMs).
World Bank’d Zimbabwe’s country rep Steenbergen mentioned that his Bretton Woods institution alludes to growing demand for energy transition minerals, notably lithium, nickel, copper and platinum, saying Zimbabwe had immense platinum and lithium reserves that have not been fully exploited.
Zimbabwe has the largest lithium reserves in Africa, a key mineral in the production of electric vehicle batteries and many modern electrical gadgets, which is one of the most sought-after minerals.
Zimbabwe’s lithium deposits are mainly found in petalite, lepidolite, and spodumene forms, making it an attractive area for investors.
Comments