Zimbabwe Ambassador to UAE Applauds ZIBCO for Driving Zimbabwe–UAE Economic Growth

By Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwean Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, His Excellency Isaac Moyo, has commended the Zimbabwe Business Council in the UAE (ZIBCO) for its growing role in strengthening trade and investment ties between Zimbabwe and the UAE.
Speaking at ZIBCO’s Annual General Meeting held at Damac Hills in Dubai on Saturday, Ambassador Moyo described the organisation as a vital bridge connecting business communities in the two countries, while fostering tangible economic opportunities.
“I commend the Zimbabwean community here in the UAE for the initiative to establish this organisation, which is actively facilitating business engagement between Zimbabwe and the UAE,” he said.
“Your work is being recognised by the Government of Zimbabwe, as evidenced by the recent Business Excellence Award presented to ZIBCO and some of its members. This recognition is well deserved.”
The Ambassador also acknowledged the continued support of Dubai Chambers, expressing optimism for deeper collaboration.
“Trade between our two countries continues to grow, but there remains significant potential to do more. Over the past five years, Zimbabwe has witnessed increased investment from the UAE, and ZIBCO plays an important role in advancing that momentum,” he added.
He reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to supporting Zimbabweans in the diaspora seeking to invest back home. “Zimbabwe presents vast opportunities across key sectors such as mining, agriculture and tourism. The Mission stands ready to assist those willing to explore and invest in these areas,” said Moyo.
Addressing the same gathering, ZIBCO Chairman Mr Simba Makahamadze highlighted the organisation’s rapid growth and expanding influence in facilitating high-level business engagements.
“Tonight, we gather not only to reflect, but to take stock in the spirit of independence and progress,” he said.
“Over the past year, we co-hosted the Exporters Indaba in Zimbabwe in partnership with ZB Financial Holdings and Dubai Chambers. This platform brought together exporters, many of whom were engaging in international business for the first time.”
Makahamadze revealed that ZIBCO had facilitated at least five high-level investment meetings spanning sectors such as mining, renewable energy and power generation, with deal values ranging from US$10 million to US$200 million.
In a significant development for financial connectivity, he noted that ZB Bank is in the process of establishing a presence in the Dubai financial sector. “Once concluded, this will mark a major milestone, unlocking trade finance and institutional linkages between Zimbabwe and the UAE,” he said.
He also acknowledged global logistics firm DP World for its growing footprint in Zimbabwe, including retail and infrastructure developments.
Makahamadze further revealed that ZIBCO look forward to host investment roadshows in Bulawayo and Harare during this the year, aimed at strengthening engagement between local businesses and UAE-based investors.
The organisation’s efforts have not gone unnoticed.
ZIBCO was recently honoured with the Zimbabwe Diaspora Achievers Award in the Business Excellence category, presented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
Calling for greater participation, Makahamadze urged Zimbabwean professionals, corporates and SMEs in the UAE to actively join the organisation. “We are building a strong, inclusive platform. Those willing to contribute should come forward, whether through membership or volunteering. There is space for everyone to be part of this journey,” he said.
ZIBCO is a non-profit, member-based organization founded in 2022 to foster trade between Zimbabwe and the UAE.
Based in UAEi, it acts as a, “soft landing” for businesses, connecting them with Dubai Chambers to boost bilateral trade, networking, and investment.