CABINET approved nine public-private partnership (PPP) projects last year, according to the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (Zida), as the government seeks to accelerate economic development.
These projects span multiple sectors, including energy, transport, water, agriculture, health, education and housing. They are expected to inject much-needed investment into the country’s infrastructure and services.
“These projects are currently at various stages, including contract negotiations, working towards financial close and implementation,” Zida chief executive officer Tafadzwa Chinamo told businessdigest in an interview.
However, Chinamo did not reveal the value of these projects.
“PPPs in Zimbabwe are primarily financed through various sources, including multi-lateral development finance institutions, private equity funds, institutional investors, banks, and high-net-worth individuals,” he said.
“The private party bears the responsibility to raise funding and can recoup its investment from project revenues. The success of fundraising efforts depends largely on project commercial and technical viability.”
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To ensure compliance and track progress, Chinamo said Zida actively monitored all approved PPP projects.
“Upon approval, the agency develops monitoring and evaluation frameworks for each project, which will be used throughout the monitoring and evaluation of the cycle,” he said.
Chinamo highlighted that the PPP projects were jointly monitored by the parties through an equally represented joint implementation committee.
“The agency produces periodic reports that are submitted to the PPP committee,” he said.
“Key performance metrics used to assess success include technical progress, financial progress, governance, compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, adherence to the agreed project scope and budget, and overall project impact.”
These evaluations, Chinamo noted, ensure that PPP projects remain on track and deliver tangible economic and social benefits.
By leveraging PPPs, the government aims to foster sustainable partnerships that enhance infrastructure development, improve public service delivery, and position Zimbabwe as a competitive investment destination.
Zida recognised significant opportunities for PPPs in Zimbabwe, particularly in the infrastructure, health, and education sectors.
“In the education sector, PPPs can support the construction of student accommodation at state universities, the development of modern university facilities to accommodate growing student populations, and the establishment of research centres that promote innovation and technological advancement,” Chinamo said.
He noted additional opportunities existed in e-learning infrastructure and vocational training centres.
In the health sector, Chinamo said key focus areas included the construction and expansion of primary healthcare facilities and regional hospitals, as well as the local production and efficient management of medications and medical supplies.
He added that there were also opportunities for enhancing emergency response systems, such as the development of advanced emergency medical infrastructure and public-private clinics.
Zimbabwe needs US$19,68 billion for infrastructural development.
“PPPs will be instrumental in financing and constructing modern road networks, rehabilitating railway systems to improve freight and passenger transport, and developing airports and logistics hubs to enhance regional and international connectivity,” Chinamo said.
“Furthermore, investments in bulk water supply and wastewater treatment facilities will be essential for urban resilience and sustainable development.”
