Zimbabwe’s Government is stepping up efforts to make the country more attractive to investors.
The administration plans to remove regulatory obstacles and lower business costs.
These measures form part of broader reforms supporting enterprise growth and Vision 2030.
Vice President Colonel (Retired) Dr Kembo Mohadi outlined the plans in Gwanda on Thursday.
He addressed business leaders during the Matabeleland South ZANU PF National People’s Conference Luncheon.
Meanwhile, Government continues reviewing licences, permits, levies and fees across several industries.
The process aims to create a simpler environment for companies and investors.
Government targets costly business regulations
Mohadi said authorities are responding directly to concerns raised by the private sector.
He explained that businesses previously faced multiple charges from different government departments.
“Quite a number of taxes have been slashed, some have been removed completely, but most of them have been reduced because you would find a situation where each and every department had something to do in your business or some tax or some levy to impose on an investment.
“The local authority would want to have their cut, local government their part, and many other organisations, and at the end of the day it becomes difficult to run a business. So we are addressing that one and we have gone a long way,” he said.
Furthermore, the Finance Ministry continues examining various fees and levies affecting businesses.
“Every other fortnight, the Minister of Finance comes with a list of levies and we discuss them, and some we slash while others we completely abolish. So be rest assured that your concerns are being addressed,” he added.
Mohadi also urged companies to contribute to national discussions.
He said business input can help shape policies supporting economic development.
Private sector backs reform drive
The meeting also highlighted stronger cooperation between Government and the private sector.
Matabeleland South recently exceeded its US$150 000 fundraising target for the upcoming conference.
The 23rd ZANU PF National People’s Conference will take place in Mashonaland West.
It will be held at Chinhoyi University of Technology in October.
Dr Albert Nguluvhe also stressed the importance of cooperation between key stakeholders.
The Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution called for collective action.
“Our office is open for everyone, and we need to build our party together. Let’s work together; we need to put our hands together,” he said.
Meanwhile, ZANU PF Matabeleland South chairperson Cde Mangaliso Ndlovu pledged support for responsible businesses.
He also warned companies against taking community land and mining assets.
“We will support businesses that work well with communities. Let’s desist from grabbing people’s farms and mines. We are going to help you when you are genuine, and we want to help you grow,” he said.
Business representatives welcomed the changes and praised lower regulatory costs.
Gwanda Business Association chairperson Thomas Gwatida said revised regulations are already helping companies.
“We want to thank the Government for the conducive business environment. Some business regulations are being revised, especially licences. This year, we got reasonable licence fees, which contribute to the ease of doing business.”
The reforms could therefore provide further relief for businesses across Zimbabwe.
Government says it will continue reviewing regulations to support investment and economic expansion.
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