Zimbabwe has contributed more than US$10.2 million towards its subscription to the Southern African Development Community as part of efforts to maintain active participation in regional and international organisations.
The payment is detailed in a report by the Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, which reviewed the 2025 budget performance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade during the first three quarters of the year.
According to the report, government disbursed a total of US$14.18 million through Treasury to settle subscriptions to international bodies. Of this amount, US$10,214,359 was directed toward Zimbabwe’s SADC obligations, while US$3.04 million cleared outstanding arrears and an additional US$311,000 went to United Nations institutions.
The Committee stressed that timely settlement of subscriptions is essential to safeguard Zimbabwe’s voting rights and participation privileges within international forums, warning that non-payment could limit the country’s influence beyond basic attendance.
Beyond multilateral subscriptions, Treasury released an average of US$6.3 million per month to sustain operations at Zimbabwe’s 54 diplomatic missions worldwide, covering staff salaries, administration and operational expenses.
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However, legislators raised concern over persistent funding gaps within the Foreign Affairs ministry, noting that only about 60% of the allocated 2025 budget had been disbursed by the third quarter. The shortfall has slowed infrastructure projects at several foreign missions, including those in Abuja, Berlin and London, where construction and renovation works remain incomplete.
The Committee cautioned that deteriorating embassy infrastructure could weaken Zimbabwe’s international image and potentially undermine investor confidence.
Despite funding challenges, the ministry reported progress in key performance areas. Diaspora remittances reached approximately US$1.8 billion by the third quarter of 2025, highlighting the growing economic contribution of Zimbabweans living abroad.
Consular services also expanded significantly, with more than 255,000 services delivered to citizens overseas alongside the rollout of electronic consular systems aimed at improving efficiency.
Meanwhile, export earnings rose to US$8.57 billion between January and November 2025, contributing to a narrowing of the country’s trade deficit.
The Committee recommended improved and timely Treasury funding to strengthen diplomatic infrastructure, enhance service delivery and sustain Zimbabwe’s engagement in global governance and trade platforms.
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