ZIDA launches a self-service digital portal for in...

ZIDA launches a self-service digital portal for investors

**Zida CEO, Tafadzwa Chinamo addresses delegates at the launch of the Agency's self-service portal**

Audrey Galawu

The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency has launched the Do It Yourself digital platform for potential investors who wish to apply for licences in Zimbabwe.

The portal is a self-service digital platform for investors who wish to submit their application, renewals, progress report and investor interface.

The launch of the portal marks a significant step for the Agency stepping away from the manual system which involved physical submission of applications, physical movement of files and paper-based registry which took up to 30 days to complete.

Unlike the manual system and the automated system, the newly-launched platform takes from two to five days to complete.

Last year, the agency launched the automated system, which involved automated application submission and processing and online registry which took up to seven days.

Speaking at the launch, ZIDA chief executive officer, Tafadzwa Chinamo said the launch of the platform signifies a significant step forward in our nation’s digitisation and economic development journey.

“I want to express sincere appreciation to the International Financial Corporation for their invaluable assistance. Their technical support, amounting to US$895 000 has enabled us to enhance our capabilities in various areas, including policy reform for Special Economic Zones, institutional development, staff training, and website upgrades.

“As we celebrate our fourth anniversary as the national Investment Promotion Agency this month, we reflect on our journey from cumbersome paper-based processes to a fully digital licensing system.

“We have made significant strides, including introducing an in-house CRM which is also expected to support this new portal.

“Additionally, at the end of 2023 we created and introduced two matchmaking online platforms, underscoring our commitment to digital transformation. In the last three months, we have also been working on updating our website and creating a digital process where individuals in the company are able to effectively track their activities in line with the Agency’s goals for 2024.

“While our focus remains on attracting quality investments to fuel economic growth, we also recognise the pivotal role of digitisation. The rapid pace of technological advancement and the unprecedented exchange of innovations necessitate our proactive embrace of digital technologies.

“The launch of this portal embodies our broader vision for a modern, digitally empowered Zimbabwe. It sends a clear message to the international community that we are open for business, eager to embrace innovation, and committed to creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and investment,” Chinamo said.

He also highlighted that digitisation requires more than just adopting new technologies; it demands a fundamental shift in mindset, processes, and systems.

ZIDA board chairman, Busisa Moyo, said the digitisation of the licensing system is a milestone in the Agency’s journey towards modernisation.

He underlined that the transition from manual systems to digital platforms enhances efficiency and ensures accuracy, security and accessibility.

“As the Chairman of the Board, I am immensely proud of the collective efforts that have culminated in developing and implementing this innovative platform. The portal represents a pivotal shift towards modernisation and efficiency, positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive player on the global investment landscape.

“In recent years, Zimbabwe has witnessed a steady increase in Foreign Direct Investment and Domestic Direct Investment- a large number of them passing through ZIDA-as has been on the Agency’s recent Quarterly performance reports.

These investments span various sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism and manufacturing, highlighting our country’s diverse opportunities.

“However, we recognise that untapped potential is still waiting to be unlocked. Launching the DIY Portal is a significant step towards realizing this potential by creating a faster and much easier route for an investor in any part of the world to access,” he said.

In a speech read on his behalf, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, said the aim of the system is to establish a transparent and predictable regulatory framework that fosters investor confidence.

“Zimbabwe is blessed with abundant natural resources. These resources, coupled with our fertile land and skilled workforce, present an array of opportunities for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and tap into a region brimming with potential.

“We have undertaken decisive steps to streamline regulatory processes, dismantle bureaucratic hurdles, and fortify investor protection mechanisms to achieve this vision.

“Central to our efforts was the establishment of the ZIDA, a dedicated entity tasked with promoting and facilitating investments in our country. ZIDA stands as a beacon of support potential investors, feasibility studies to facilitating business permits and licenses,” he said.