By Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signaled a new phase in Zimbabwe’s foreign policy, urging diplomats to transform the country’s embassies into active engines of economic growth and innovation rather than mere centers of political representation.
Addressing ambassadors and senior envoys at State House on Friday, Mnangagwa emphasized that the nation’s diplomatic missions must now operate as *“strategic economic hubs”* — driving trade, investment, tourism, and technological partnerships to advance Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
“Our missions should function as strategic economic hubs that advance trade, investment, tourism, and innovation while promoting a positive image of our country and defending our sovereignty,” the President said.
The briefing followed weeks of intensive strategy sessions for diplomats, who also attended the ZANU PF Annual National People’s Conference in Mutare earlier this month. As they return to their posts across the world, Mnangagwa’s message was clear: the Second Republic expects ambassadors to align diplomacy with measurable economic results.
Tapping the Diaspora for Growth
Mnangagwa identified the diaspora as an underutilized source of investment capital and innovation. He called for embassies to adopt an open-door approach, not only assisting Zimbabweans abroad but engaging them as partners in development.
“The ever-increasing diaspora remittances are evidence of immense potential,” he noted. “Our embassies must craft models to harness this combined potential as a source of investment capital.”
Pushing for a UN Security Council Seat
The President also reiterated Zimbabwe’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term. With support already received from several international partners, Mnangagwa urged diplomats to maintain continuous engagement to secure the required two-thirds majority vote.
#### **Ease of Doing Business and Global Market Expansion**
Reaffirming his administration’s “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” mantra, Mnangagwa outlined government efforts to make the country a competitive destination for investors. Initiatives include creating export support hubs, reducing non-tariff barriers, and introducing digital tools to connect local producers with international buyers.
“Embassies must provide detailed market profiles to help Zimbabwean producers identify new opportunities and expand existing markets,” he said.
The meeting also marked the first official briefing for newly appointed ambassadors and those reassigned to new missions, underscoring the administration’s intent to align its diplomatic corps with a development-centered foreign policy.
