Zimbabwe's Economic Growth Potential Unlimited, Says U.S. Ambassador

The United States has said that Zimbabwe's potential for economic growth is unlimited due to its rich human and natural resources. In a statement shared with local media on Monday, August 19, U.S. Ambassador Pamela Tremont underscored the longstanding support provided by the United States since Zimbabwe's independence, including funding for food security and demining programs. Since Zimbabwe's independence in 1980, the United States has committed more than $5 billion in humanitarian, health and development assistance, with more than $1 billion allocated in the last three years alone, Tremont said. We have provided $62 million in assistance in 2024 to address the impact of the current drought in Zimbabwe, she said. This funding will address short-term food insecurity and develop long-term strategies to improve agricultural technology and empower communities to repair themselves. On the agricultural front, U.S. support for the demining program has made more than 3,000 acres of land available for farming. Working together, we have returned to farmers land that has been a security risk to local people and their livestock since Zimbabwe's grueling liberation war. Broad-based economic prosperity cannot be achieved without strong democratic institutions, good public health and regional security. The United States supports all of these areas because they are key elements for the people of Zimbabwe to chart their own future course. Ambassador Tremont said the United States aims to strengthen economic ties with Zimbabwe to promote mutual interests between the two countries. We want to work together to improve Zimbabwe's investment climate, to increase economic opportunities for people and communities, to build stronger business ties, and to attract investors who will pay close attention to Zimbabwe's educated human resources and its potential for long-term growth, Tremont said. We believe that the government and people of Zimbabwe need to work together to tell the story that Zimbabwe is a good business partner that is focused on fighting corruption, that provides policy certainty in regulation, currency and taxation, and that enjoys equal access to justice under the law. Zimbabwe has a long history, many talented people and rich natural resources. It shows promise as a great southern African frontrunner and an active participant in the global conversation. Zimbabwe's potential is limitless. We look forward to deepening our partnership for our mutual benefit. The Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs, a division of the United States Department of State, in its Zimbabwe Investment Climate Report 2024, cited conflicting policies, corruption, administrative delays and high costs as significant obstacles to business development in Zimbabwe.