Zimbabwe recorded a 32.2 percent decline in new investment licenses issued in the first quarter of 2026 compared to prior period, the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (Zida) said.
“During the quarter…the Agency recorded mixed performance in investment licensing, with the number of new licenses issued declining by 32.2 percent from 214 to 146,” Zida chief executive Tafadzwa Chinamo said.
“…total projected investment value decreased by 59.6 percent year-on-year,” he said.
He said total license renewals increased by 53 percent while timely renewals improved to 22 percent, reflecting the impact of strengthened monitoring and follow-up initiatives.
Chinamo, however, said there was a notable shift in the structure and quality of investment, with a 62 percent increase in projected investment value compared to the previous quarter.
He said the performance was “driven by fewer but more capital-intensive projects”.
Domestic Direct Investments increased significantly, with contributions rising by 2,406 percent – from US$4.08 million to US$102.38 million, indicating stronger domestic involvement and joint venture activity.
Chinamo added: “The capital structure also shifted, with capital equipment imports accounting for 46 percent of total investment, followed by foreign currency cash injections at 25 percent and foreign loans at 22 percent, reflecting sustained investor confidence alongside increased use of leveraged financing.”
He said strengthened relationships with Kenya and Ghana through Joint Permanent Commissions, together with collaboration with UNCTAD on the Investment Single Window prototype, was helping to streamline the investor journey.
“The development of the National Investment Single Window, anchored on the e-Regulations platform, is expected to further improve efficiency, transparency, and coordination across government,” Chinamo said.
Zida is a government one-stop shop facilitating, promoting, and regulating foreign and local investments. – TML