Zimbabwe's transition towards greener and more energy-efficient manufacturing will depend as much on skilled human capital as on new technologies, according to the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries, which has called for increased investment in technical skills development across the industrial sector.

The organisation says manufacturers seeking to improve productivity, reduce energy costs and strengthen competitiveness must prioritise the development of specialised expertise in energy management and operational efficiency.

“The transition towards green manufacturing and greater industrial energy efficiency depends not only on technology and systems, but also on the availability of skilled professionals who can design, implement, and sustain these improvements,” CZI said.

The business body noted that as industries increasingly pursue efficiency gains, technical capacity is becoming a critical factor in determining success.

“As industries seek to improve productivity, reduce energy costs, and strengthen competitiveness, investment in technical skills development is becoming increasingly important.”

According to CZI, expertise in internationally recognised standards such as ISO 50001 can help firms identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and better resource utilisation.

“Building expertise in energy management, operational optimisation, and internationally recognised frameworks such as ISO 50001 enables organisations to identify efficiency opportunities, improve resource utilisation, and drive continuous improvement.”

The remarks come as Zimbabwean manufacturers continue to face pressure from high operating costs, power supply challenges and growing competition from imports. Many firms are increasingly investing in energy-saving technologies and renewable energy solutions as they seek to improve productivity and reduce costs.

Findings from the CZI Annual Manufacturing Sector Survey Report 2025 underscore the importance of productivity improvements and technological upgrading in strengthening industrial performance.

“Findings from the CZI Annual Manufacturing Sector Survey Report 2025 continue to highlight the importance of productivity enhancement, technology adoption, and operational efficiency in improving industrial performance.”

However, the organisation stressed that technology adoption alone is insufficient without a workforce capable of implementing and managing these systems.

“However, the successful implementation of these measures relies heavily on the availability of competent technical personnel across the manufacturing sector.”

The focus on energy efficiency comes amid a broader shift within Zimbabwean industry towards sustainability and greener production methods. Rising electricity costs, growing environmental concerns and international market requirements are increasingly pushing manufacturers to adopt cleaner production processes and improve resource efficiency.

CZI argued that strengthening technical skills would accelerate this transition while improving industrial competitiveness.

“Strengthening industry skills and technical capacity creates the foundation for accelerated adoption of energy-efficient practices, supports the transition to greener manufacturing processes, and enhances the long-term competitiveness of Zimbabwean industry.”

The organisation added that workforce development should be viewed as a strategic economic priority.

“Developing the skills required for a sustainable industrial future is therefore not only a workforce development priority, it is a critical enabler of industrial growth, energy efficiency, and economic resilience.”