Stakeholders Interrogate 2026 Mid-Term Budget Review at Harare Business Breakfast

Government officials, business leaders, economists, and key industry stakeholders convened in Harare today for a Business Breakfast Meeting co-hosted by the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion and the Daily News.The high-level interactive session provided a platform to review the 2026 Mid-Term Budget Statement, evaluate economic progress, and present policy recommendations to strengthen growth and fiscal stability.Key Highlights & Economic AssessmentOpening the discussions, renowned economist Eddie Cross delivered an overview of the economic outlook, commending the Treasury for maintaining macroeconomic stability and fiscal discipline despite external headwinds, global market volatility, and geopolitical trade tensions. Delegates and panel members noted that Zimbabwe's economy continues to show resilience, supported by: Fiscal & Currency Stability: Continued single-digit inflation momentum and local currency stability. Sectoral Recovery: Growth across key sectors, including rebounding agricultural output and improved industrial electricity supply. Strong Foreign Receipts: Robust export performance and stable government revenue streams. Budget Transparency & Global RankingIn his keynote address, Finance Minister Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube emphasized the country’s achievements in public financial management, highlighting Zimbabwe’s strong performance in international transparency benchmarks.Sub-Saharan Ranking: Zimbabwe is now ranked 3rd in Sub-Saharan Africa for budget transparency in the Open Budget Survey, trailing only South Africa and Benin. Minimum Benchmark Met: The Minister noted that Zimbabwe officially meets the internationally recognized minimum benchmark for budget transparency, reinforcing government accountability and open governance under Vision 2030 aspirations. Public-Private Policy EngagementDuring the interactive Q&A session, Ministry of Finance Permanent Secretary Mr. George Guvamatanga responded to questions raised by business leaders regarding regulatory frameworks, economic priorities, and sector-specific incentives.The candid dialogue underscored the critical role of continuous public-private partnerships in refining policy, attracting investment, and accelerating national economic transformation.