Key Points
- Russia targets Zimbabwe’s skilled workforce for construction industry.
- MoU advances building technology and housing collaboration.
- Russia and Zimbabwe deepen ties with joint projects.
In a strategic move to address labor shortages and support its expanding construction sector, Russia is turning to Zimbabwe to bolster its skilled workforce.
The initiative follows a series of high-level discussions designed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. Central to this emerging partnership is Russia’s explicit interest in tapping into Zimbabwe’s growing pool of construction talent.
Zimbabwean skilled workers to aid Russia’s construction
Discussions between Russian and Zimbabwean officials have centered on how skilled workers from Zimbabwe could help meet demand in Russia’s bustling construction industry.
This development surfaced after talks between Zimbabwe’s Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Soda Zhemu, and Russia’s Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing, Nikita Stasishin, during the 12th International Urban Forum in Cairo.
Strategic Russia-Zimbabwe partnership unfolds
Stasishin reportedly proposed that Zimbabwean workers assist on various Russian construction projects, while also highlighting Russia’s readiness to share expertise in social housing initiatives.
As reported by Business Insider Africa, the dialogue also covered a potential visit from Russian delegates to Zimbabwe to explore other areas of interest, including a 2023 memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on advancing building technologies, infrastructure development, and affordable housing.
Russia and Zimbabwe have recently collaborated on a successful geological expedition, the first of its kind between the nations. Experts from the University of Zimbabwe and Russia’s State University for Geological Prospecting conducted the joint survey, uncovering significant data on the evolution of the earth’s crust in southern Africa.
This project exemplifies the strengthening ties between Russia and Zimbabwe as they seek to capitalize on each other’s growing market opportunities.
