World Bank Projects Zimbabwe Economic Growth Above 5% In 2026

The World Bank has projected Zimbabwe’s GDP growth to remain above 5% in 2026 but warned that fiscal slippages, external shocks, and climate-related disasters such as droughts could threaten economic stability.

In its “Zimbabwe Economic Update 2025″, the Bank urged the government to implement the Economic Reforms Matrix under the Structured Dialogue Platform for Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution.

Progress on the platform, it said, could unlock affordable external credit and stimulate public and private investment to boost growth.

The Bank also recommended maintaining price and exchange rate stability to support growth and job creation, while continuing to implement the Presidential Ease of Doing Business Initiative.

These measures, it said, will improve the business environment, enhance competitiveness, and promote private sector-led growth.

ZEU noted government progress on regulatory reforms under the initiative, particularly efforts to simplify burdensome procedures for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The World Bank called for a comprehensive public registry of licenses, fees, and inspection requirements, consolidation of overlapping procedures, and risk-based, size-appropriate compliance regimes to reduce costs and improve regulatory efficiency.

It further advised strengthening central oversight, clarifying agency mandates, reviewing fee structures, and ensuring regulations serve the public interest rather than institutional revenue needs.

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