Minister Ndlovu Calls on Citizens to Champion Local Industry for Economic Revival

Zimbabweans must rally behind local products and industries to fuel the nation’s economic turnaround, Industry and Commerce Minister Nqobizitha Ndlovu urged at the recent ZimBrands Awards ceremony.

Addressing an enthusiastic crowd, Ndlovu emphasized that the future prosperity of Zimbabwe hinges on its people’s innovation, entrepreneurship, and commitment to homegrown solutions.

“The ZimBrands Awards, now rebranded under the Buy Zimbabwe Campaign, are more than just accolades—they are a clarion call to action.

“Our economy’s success and the well-being of every Zimbabwean depend on our collective effort to support local industry,” he said.

Ndlovu praised local producers for their resilience amid challenging economic conditions, highlighting their role in forging a self-sustaining and robust economy.

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“Your achievements showcase the power of Zimbabwean ingenuity, determination, and resilience,” he told NewsDay during the event.

He acknowledged that the recent liberalization of the exchange rate has offered much-needed relief for retailers and wholesalers grappling with pricing volatility.

“This is a pivotal moment. But more than policies, we need a mindset shift—our people must see that imported goods are not inherently superior to locally produced ones,” Ndlovu said, urging citizens to value Zimbabwean-made products.

The minister also stressed the government’s firm stance against smuggling and counterfeit goods, which threaten the integrity of the local market.

“We are intensifying anti-smuggling programmes, collaborating closely with law enforcement to protect our producers from unfair competition,” he told NewsDay.

“Stronger surveillance and enforcement are crucial to safeguarding our economy.”

Ndlovu appealed to Zimbabweans to unite behind local products as a symbol of national pride and economic resilience.

“Let us work together to build a prosperous Zimbabwe, where local industries thrive and create jobs for our people. Supporting Buy Zimbabwe is not just a slogan—it’s our pathway to a stronger nation.”