Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe has strengthened its business links with China through a trade and business trip aimed at improving the country’s healthcare sector.

The move demonstrates the bank’s strong commitment to the growth and modernization of local health services.

The team visited Shanghai, Yiwu, Hangzhou, and Tonglu to explore opportunities to collaborate with Chinese companies in areas such as medical technology, hospital construction, and equipment supply.

Stanbic Bank Head of Trade and Africa-China Banking, Tapuwa Nyika, said the bank was proud to help connect Zimbabwe’s health sector with international partners who can support its growth.

“Our job at Stanbic Bank is to act as a bridge. We help link Zimbabwean institutions with global partners who can bring development to various sectors. This mission focused on health because it is one of the most important parts of our economy,” said Nyika.

He added that the bank’s Africa-China Banking platform helps clients find trusted Chinese suppliers, access financial support, and adopt modern medical tools that can improve healthcare delivery in Zimbabwe.

“We believe growth comes through collaboration. By connecting our health professionals with China’s expertise and technology, we are turning ideas into real progress,” Nyika said.

Stanbic Bank Head of Public Sector Banking, Sarah Charangwa, who led the trip, described the visit to China as both educational and inspiring.

“The experience in China was eye-opening. Our clients observed how innovation, efficiency, and teamwork between government and private companies have improved healthcare in China,” said Charangwa.

She explained that delegates returned with new ideas, such as digital health systems and modern hospital management models, which could enhance Zimbabwe’s healthcare.

“We are ready to help our clients implement what they learned. Through financing, advice, and trade support, we want to ensure this mission leads to tangible growth,” she added.

Charangwa noted that Stanbic Bank’s support for the health sector extends beyond business trips. The bank has assisted hospitals and clinics in purchasing equipment, expanding facilities, and improving operations. It has also donated medical supplies, renovated hospital wards, and supported community health programs.

“Our commitment to healthcare is long-term. We believe a strong health system is key to national progress. Every dollar we invest in health is an investment in the people of Zimbabwe and their future. Zimbabwe is our home, and we drive its growth,” Charangwa said.

She added that the trip marked the beginning of long-term partnerships with Chinese suppliers and investors.

“Our clients now have the contacts and confidence to work directly with Chinese companies. Stanbic Bank will continue to support them with the financial tools and global connections they need,” she said.

The China visit is part of Stanbic Bank’s ongoing efforts to strengthen trade links between Zimbabwe and China. The bank also hosts Stanbic China Day annually, an event launched in 2023 to help local businesses understand and engage with the Chinese market.

Stanbic has also partnered with Zhejiang International Trading Supply Chain Co. Ltd (Guamao), giving Zimbabwean businesses access to more than 10,000 verified Chinese suppliers. 

The bank created a free e-book titled “Beginner’s Guide to Importing from China” to help clients learn how to find suppliers, manage imports, and grow their businesses through trade with China.