PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA — Zimbabwe’s participation at the 20th edition of the G20 Summit offers a significant opportunity to attract international investment and tap into global financing channels, Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said. The summit, taking place this weekend in South Africa, is being viewed by Harare as a strategic platform to showcase the country as an emerging investment destination on the African continent.
VP Chiwenga made the remarks upon arrival in South Africa, where he is representing President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the summit. He stressed the importance of leveraging Zimbabwe’s presence at such a high-profile global gathering, even as the country remains a non-member participant.
The G20, comprising 19 countries, the European Union, and, since 2023, the African Union, accounts for 85 percent of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 75 percent of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population. The summit brings together world leaders, financiers, and policymakers to discuss measures for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
“His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, was invited by his brother, President Cyril Ramaphosa, as South Africa hosts the G20,” VP Chiwenga said. “The President has sent me to represent him. While Zimbabwe is not a formal member of the G20, we are here as invitees, seizing this opportunity to engage with a group that controls the vast majority of global economic activity.”
Zimbabwe’s VP Chiwenga Participates in G20 Summit in South Africa
He added: “This assembly represents the most critical gathering of world leaders. We are committed to making a strong case for Zimbabwe as a secure and attractive investment destination.”
VP Chiwenga emphasised that Zimbabwe is keen to position itself as a country that is pacing up with economic development and inclusion. “The timing could not be better,” he noted. “Zimbabwe has made strides in creating a stable economic environment, improving safety for investors, and establishing a foundation for sustainable growth. We are presenting these developments directly to financiers and policy influencers who control vast global capital.”
The Vice President indicated that the summit provides a unique chance for Zimbabwe to engage with affluent economies, explore funding partnerships, and attract long-term investment. He highlighted that this engagement is particularly vital as the world grapples with economic uncertainty and challenges to international trade and finance.
While at the summit, VP Chiwenga is scheduled to meet with several key leaders, including his South African counterpart, Paul Mashatile. These bilateral meetings aim to strengthen regional cooperation, discuss trade facilitation, and explore joint ventures that could benefit both countries.
“Engaging leaders on the sidelines is critical,” VP Chiwenga explained. “These discussions complement the broader multilateral agenda and enable us to make Zimbabwe’s case directly to decision-makers who can influence investment flows.”
The Vice President reiterated that Zimbabwe has positioned itself as one of Africa’s safest destinations for capital investment. He underscored ongoing reforms in governance, economic policy, and security that have enhanced the country’s appeal to global investors.
“Zimbabwe is not just a recipient of investment; we are an active partner,” VP Chiwenga said. “Our presence here demonstrates that we are ready to engage, negotiate, and participate in shaping economic opportunities that benefit both Zimbabwe and the global economy.”
The G20 Summit comes at a critical juncture for Zimbabwe as it seeks to overcome domestic economic challenges and stimulate growth through foreign partnerships. The Vice President stressed that participation is about more than visibility—it is about advocacy, relationship-building, and strategic engagement with some of the world’s most influential economies.
“With the global economy facing unprecedented challenges, this summit is a platform for Zimbabwe to assert its interests, advocate for support, and explore partnerships that can drive national development,” VP Chiwenga said.
He concluded by affirming the country’s commitment to leveraging every opportunity presented by international forums such as the G20. “We are here to make a case for Zimbabwe, to attract investment, and to demonstrate that our country is open, resilient, and ready to participate in the global economy.”
Sourcce- Herald
