The International Monetary Fund has raised its economic growth expectations for Zimbabwe in 2025, pointing to a faster-than-expected recovery supported by stronger harvests and sustained growth in key mineral exports such as gold and lithium.
The revised projection follows an IMF mission to Harare that ended on 5 November, led by mission chief Wojciech Maliszewski. He said improved agricultural output and solid performance in the mining sector were helping ease inflation and support the continued stability of Zimbabwe’s foreign exchange system.
“This recovery is stronger than previously anticipated,” Maliszewski said, adding that momentum is expected to carry on into 2026. The upgrade marks a shift from earlier, more cautious projections that were clouded by fiscal risks and inflation concerns.
Over the past year, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector has recorded higher crop yields, while global demand for critical minerals — especially lithium — has strengthened foreign currency inflows and improved the country’s overall macroeconomic position.
During the visit, IMF officials held talks with Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, Reserve Bank governor John Mushayavanhu, and other senior stakeholders. Discussions centred on the 2026 national budget and the need for spending discipline, with the Fund urging Harare to align expenditure with realistic revenue targets and avoid new arrears.
The government has also requested a Staff Monitored Programme to help guide policy reforms and build confidence among international partners. The IMF says it is prepared to resume work on this request, provided that Zimbabwe demonstrates progress on key policy commitments outlined in recent Article IV consultations.
Economists say the improved IMF outlook could help strengthen investor sentiment and support Zimbabwe’s wider efforts to rebuild trust with global lenders following years of isolation.
Source:Africa Publicity
