The 10th CEO Africa Annual Roundtable convened at the Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls, bringing together an esteemed gathering of business leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the region and beyond. Hosted under the theme “The Future of Africa: Modernise, Reshape and Grow,” the event sought to explore avenues for innovation and economic transformation in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, who graced the occasion as Guest of Honour, highlighted the significance of the event in shaping national, regional, and continental development through public-private engagements. He welcomed delegates, acknowledging their confidence in Zimbabwe’s investment climate and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
The President emphasized the critical role of innovation and Information Communication Technology (ICT) in modernising Africa’s economic landscape. He underscored the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is fundamentally reshaping global industries and economies through technological advancements.
He urged businesses and policymakers to adapt swiftly to the changing global market demands, advocating for the modernisation of outdated systems and processes across sectors. The President stressed that these efforts should extend beyond the private sector to include state-owned enterprises, which play a crucial role in delivering essential services and managing national infrastructure.President Mnangagwa highlighted his government’s commitment to improving Zimbabwe’s ease of doing business environment, promoting competitiveness, and fostering a conducive investment climate.
He called upon participants to explore diverse investment opportunities in key sectors such as commerce, manufacturing, mining, agriculture, and tourism.Infrastructure development emerged as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economic agenda under the Second Republic, with significant investments planned for road rehabilitation, power generation, and renewable energy projects. The President noted regional and continental opportunities in clean energy sectors, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.In promoting regional integration and trade facilitation, President Mnangagwa urged stakeholders to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He highlighted the potential of AfCFTA to boost intra-Africa trade, expand investments, create jobs, and improve living standards across the continent.The President called upon industry leaders to seize the opportunities presented by AfCFTA, fostering regional value chains and industrialisation across Africa. He underscored the importance of sustainable growth, emphasising the need to balance profit with purpose and ensure inclusive economic development.
In conclusion, President Mnangagwa expressed confidence that the discussions and deliberations at the CEO Africa Annual Roundtable would shape the trajectory of African economies, benefiting millions of livelihoods and future generations. He invited delegates to explore the natural beauty of Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park during their stay.
Positive Eye News
