KEY POINTS
- Zimbabwe and the EU sign $81.4 million in agreements focused on agriculture, biodiversity, governance, and gender equality, marking strengthened ties.
- The EU aims to mobilize European businesses to invest in Zimbabwe as part of a renewed cooperation push.
- Zimbabwe–EU trade, totaling $700 million, is poised to grow with increased agricultural sector support and the Vision 2030 partnership.
Zimbabwe and the European Union signed four agreements worth €75 million ($81.40 million) on Monday. This marks progress in economic and diplomatic ties toward sustainable growth and improved governance.
The agreements, which target agricultural value chains, biodiversity conservation, government transparency and gender equality, highlight a renewed partnership after years of diplomatic strain.
Signed by EU Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann and Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, the deals support Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1).
They also align with the EU’s 2021–2027 Multi-Annual Indicative Programme for Zimbabwe, which has allocated €148 million ($160.63 million) to foster sustainable growth and governance.
Targeted Funding for Key Development Areas
Agricultural Value Chains will receive €26 million ($28.22 million) to develop the horticulture and small grain sectors, integrating renewable energy solutions for environmentally conscious economic growth.
Biodiversity and resilience receive €26 million ($28.22 million) to enhance conservation efforts, support human-centered biodiversity projects and build resilience in affected communities.
Transparency and Accountability will receive €16 million($17.36 million) to increase citizen participation in governance and improve access to justice and public services.
Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment will receive €7 million($7.6 million) for empowering women and reducing violence against women and girls.
Ambassador von Kirchmann reiterated that the agreement is part of the commitment to strengthen long-term cooperation with Zimbabwe. “Together as Team Europe, we are exploring ways to encourage European businesses to invest here,” von Kirchmann added, saying that regular dialogue between the EU and Zimbabwe is essential to aligning the support with Zimbabwe’s national priorities.
A Boost for Trade and Investment
The EU serves as Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest trading partner as both parties share a comprehensive trade agreement. Zimbabwe’s major exports to the EU are horticultural goods, contributing around $700 million to the trade relationship
Von Kirchmann emphasized that investment in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector could be a game-changer for the country’s economic development.
Zimbabwe’s Re-Engagement Strategy
Mthuli Ncube, Zimbabwe’s Minister for Finance, expressed his gratitude for the EU’s continued support and hope for sustained agreements. He noted that the present agreements between the EU and Zimbabwe align with Zimbabwe’s development goals.
“These agreements reflect Zimbabwe’s priorities in NDS 1,” he said, highlighting the country’s commitment to strengthen ties with the EU.
The EU has increased support for Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, underscored by a recent delegation visit to the Zimbabwe Trade Fair.
Relations with the EU have improved under President Mnangagwa, who prioritizes re-engagement with international partners.
The four agreements underscore a focus on sustainable growth, transparency, environmental resilience, and inclusive economic development.
