The 2024 SADC Industrialization Week began at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Harare with a business breakfast meeting organized by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC). The event’s keynote address was delivered by Hon. N. M. Ndlovu, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Industry and Commerce.
This year marks the 7th edition of the SADC Industrialization Week, focusing on “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialized SADC.” The theme highlights the crucial role of innovation in driving industrial growth across the Southern African region.
Minister Ndlovu emphasized the importance of investment in research and development, support for technology industries, and fostering creativity and entrepreneurship. He called for the establishment of innovation hubs, funding for startups, and stronger collaborations between universities and industries to promote innovation.
The Minister also stressed the need for an enabling environment to attract investment. He highlighted Zimbabwe’s efforts to streamline business registration processes, provide tax incentives, and strengthen property rights. He urged SADC member states to collaborate in enhancing the region’s capacity to attract investment.
Ndlovu pointed to the region’s abundant natural resources, youthful population, and strategic geographic location as key strengths for industrial growth. He emphasized the importance of regional integration to create larger markets and optimize resource utilization.
Sustainability was another key focus. Ndlovu called for the adoption of green technologies, promotion of energy efficiency, and implementation of environmentally friendly practices. He highlighted Zimbabwe’s commitment to sustainable industrialization through the Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy (ZNIDP) for 2025 to 2030.
The Minister noted that the SADC Industrialization Week provides a platform for strategic collaborations and partnerships among Chambers of Commerce, private sector players, policymakers, and financiers. He also mentioned the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and attract investment.
Infrastructure development was highlighted as essential for sustaining industrial growth. Ndlovu mentioned the recent Trans-Frontier Park Agreement between Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia as an example of regional cooperation in managing shared natural resources and integrating infrastructure.
The 2024 SADC Industrialization Week aims to drive industrial growth and sustainable development across the Southern African region through innovation, investment, and regional cooperation.
