Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister, Mthuli Ncube, has unveiled plans to transition the country toward a 24-hour economy, a bold initiative that has been met with optimism across multiple business sectors. Executives in tourism, energy, automotive, and industrial industries are lauding the proposal, viewing it as a catalyst for growth if accompanied by strategic investment in infrastructure, energy, and public services.
The initiative, aimed at extending economic activity beyond conventional working hours, is seen as a potential driver for increased revenue, job creation, and closer alignment with global economic hubs. Business leaders argue that, if implemented effectively, a 24-hour economy could transform Zimbabwe’s economic landscape, boost investor confidence, and enhance competitiveness in regional and international markets.
Tourism operators are among the first to embrace the concept. Ms Jamie Mnangagwa, Chief Executive of Drummond Safaris, said the initiative could redefine Zimbabwe’s position as a premier tourism destination.
“A 24-hour economy would allow tourism operators to offer experiences around the clock — from late-night game drives to seamless international travel connections,” she explained.
“It sends a strong signal that Zimbabwe is open for business at all times.”
Extended operating hours could also benefit hotels, travel agencies, and entertainment providers, ensuring that tourists enjoy uninterrupted services and a more immersive experience in the country’s wildlife and cultural attractions.
Executives in the energy sector stress that electricity supply is central to the success of a round-the-clock economy. Mr Ronald Magumise, Managing Director of Tonga Tron, an Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Management (EPCM) firm in Harare, highlighted the role of renewable energy.
“This vision is possible, but it rests on power availability,” he said.
“By accelerating renewable energy projects, particularly solar, Zimbabwe can sustain continuous industrial and commercial activity and reduce dependency on imports. That is how we make the 24-hour economy work.”
Mr Magumise emphasised that investment in reliable power infrastructure would be critical to ensuring uninterrupted operations, from factories to service industries, across the country.
Business Leaders Back Finance Minister Ncube’s 24-Hour Economy Proposal
The manufacturing and industrial sector sees potential for enhanced productivity and efficiency. Mr Innocent Shoniwa, Managing Director of Ravic Investments, stated that longer operating hours could improve output and strengthen Zimbabwean goods in regional markets.
“Running plants for longer hours means greater productivity and efficiency, which can help Zimbabwean goods compete regionally,” he noted.
“With the right incentives, businesses will expand output, create jobs, and support the Government’s growth agenda.”
Experts say that increased operational hours could reduce production bottlenecks, maximise existing infrastructure, and encourage further investment in machinery and human resources.
The proposal is also expected to impact the automotive sector. Mr Sipho Ndebele, Branch Manager for Suzuki Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, explained that extended economic activity could transform consumer and business dynamics in urban centres.
“For the motor industry, a 24-hour economy means extended service hours, better logistics, and more responsive after-sales support,” he said.
“It will also spur demand for vehicles designed for high-activity urban environments, strengthening Bulawayo’s role as a commercial hub.”
Longer operating hours could facilitate smoother supply chains, more efficient delivery networks, and enhanced customer service, benefitting both manufacturers and consumers.
Economists note that Zimbabwe’s informal sector already operates on extended hours in many urban markets, providing a partial template for the formal economy. Small businesses and street vendors often remain active late into the evening, demonstrating the viability of prolonged economic activity when supported by demand.
The challenge, analysts say, will be replicating this model across the formal economy, which requires reliable electricity, transport systems, and security measures to ensure safety and continuity of operations.
Despite these challenges, business leaders remain optimistic. They argue that, if paired with strong policy support and investment in infrastructure, a 24-hour economy could be a transformative step toward modernising Zimbabwe’s economy, attracting foreign investment, and creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
“This is a chance to rethink how we do business in Zimbabwe,” said one industry observer.
“Extended hours, coupled with the right incentives, could reshape productivity patterns, enhance competitiveness, and position the country as a dynamic, investor-friendly hub in Southern Africa.”
Finance Minister Ncube’s 24-hour economy proposal is generating discussion and excitement across sectors. Tourism, energy, industrial, and automotive leaders see the initiative as a potential game-changer, capable of unlocking new revenue streams, improving competitiveness, and driving economic growth.
While significant investment in infrastructure, energy, and security will be essential to sustain operations, the consensus among business leaders is clear: if implemented effectively, a 24-hour economy could redefine Zimbabwe’s growth trajectory and cement its position as a modern, globally connected economy.
Source- Herald
