Source: ‘Diaspora critical national asset’ – herald
Tadious Manyepo-Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWEANS living abroad have been commended for their growing contribution to the country’s development through remittances, investments, skills transfer and global networking, with their role increasingly becoming critical in the country’s economic transformation agenda.
Addressing the Diaspora Investment and Skills Forum of the Zimbabwe Achievers Awards in Birmingham, England, yesterday, Youth Development, Empowerment and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire said the Diaspora community had become one of the country’s greatest assets.
The forum brought together business leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and policymakers to strengthen ties between Zimbabwe and its citizens living and working abroad while exploring investment and development opportunities.
Minister Machakaire praised Mr Conrad Mwanza, the ZAA founder and president, partners and organisers of the forum for creating a platform that not only celebrates Zimbabwean excellence, but also strengthens the bridge between Zimbabwe and its global diaspora community.
“This gathering is more than a forum; it is a platform for ideas, partnerships, investment, innovation and nation-building,” said Minister Machakaire.
Zimbabwe continues to benefit significantly from diaspora remittances, which remain one of the country’s major foreign currency inflows and help ensure that the current account remains highly positive, with inflows exceeding outflows.
Beyond financial support, the diaspora community has also contributed through expertise and innovation across various sectors, including healthcare, engineering, academia, technology and entrepreneurship.
“The Zimbabwean diaspora remains one of our nation’s greatest assets. Across the world, Zimbabweans continue to excel in business, healthcare, technology, academia, engineering, entrepreneurship and innovation.
“Beyond remittances, you contribute through skills, knowledge, investment, global networks and international experience. The diaspora is not just part of Zimbabwe’s story; it is part of Zimbabwe’s future,” he said.
Zimbabwe is creating opportunities for its citizens abroad to participate in national development as the country advances towards Vision 2030, said Minister Machakaire.
“Zimbabwe’s strength lies not only within its borders, but also in the contributions of Zimbabweans across the globe.
“I encourage our brothers and sisters in the diaspora to continue looking back home not only emotionally, but also economically. Zimbabwe is open for investment. Zimbabwe is open for partnerships.
“Zimbabwe is open for innovation. This is the time to invest back home. This is the time to build industries. This is the time to create jobs and opportunities for future generations,” he said.
Minister Machakaire, who is also Wedza South Constituency legislator, said there are vast opportunities for diaspora investment in sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, infrastructure, tourism, arts and sports.
“True patriotism is not only expressed through words; it is expressed through contribution and participation in national development,” he said.
“As Zimbabweans, we all have a responsibility to contribute towards the development of our country. I encourage you, our diaspora community, not only to invest financially, but also to support the Government with constructive ideas, developmental solutions, innovation, technology and global expertise that can help improve our nation.
“Our country needs Zimbabweans who are prepared to contribute positively towards progress and transformation. No one will develop Zimbabwe for us if we do not participate ourselves.”
Minister Machakaire stressed the importance of strengthening support systems for Zimbabwean professionals working abroad, particularly those in the healthcare sector.
“As we strengthen diaspora engagement, we must also continue to enhance support systems for young Zimbabwean healthcare professionals working abroad.
COMMENTS