Zimbabwe has cemented its commitment to regional integration and economic diplomacy at the 24th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Summit currently underway in Nairobi, Kenya.
The country's growing regional influence was highlighted by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Prof. Murwira, who assumes the influential role of incoming Chair of the COMESA Council of Ministers.
Prof. Amon Murwira emphasized that Zimbabwe's participation aligns directly with its foreign policy, which is anchored on economic diplomacy and Pan-African solidarity. “Zimbabwe’s foreign policy is built on the principle of integration, not only political but also economic,” Prof. Murwira stated. “Our key message is that Zimbabwe is open for business, a friend to all and an enemy to none. COMESA provides a vital platform to advance this vision, foster trade, and improve the lives of people across our continent.”
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The engagement sets the stage for a significant leadership transition. His Excellency President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is set to assume the position of incoming Chair of COMESA at the Summit, joining the Bureau alongside Burundi (outgoing Chair) and Kenya (current Chair).
Zimbabwe is scheduled to host the 25th COMESA Summit and will chair the organization from 2026 to 2027. This upcoming COMESA Chairship follows President Mnangagwa’s recent successful tenure as Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), reflecting a sustained dedication to Pan-African institutions and regional development.
Zimbabwe’s active role in the 21-member trade bloc complements its ongoing domestic reforms aimed at enhancing productivity, improving the ease of doing business, and reducing trade barriers. Key initiatives being championed include reviewing taxes and licensing frameworks to attract investment, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers with regional partners, and championing regional development funds to finance productive sectors and infrastructure.
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