AfCFTA: Zimbabwe upbeat on growing trade with Rwanda

Trade relations between Rwanda and Zimbabwe are thriving, with Rwanda's imports from Zimbabwe increasing by an impressive 52 per cent and exports rising by 8 per cent as of April this year. Both nations are dedicated to sustaining this positive trajectory within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). CNBC Africa's Aby Agina engaged in a conversation with the Zimbabwean Ambassador to Rwanda, Charity Manyeruke, shedding light on the burgeoning trade dynamics between the two African countries. Ambassador Manyeruke expounded on the significance of ongoing initiatives to bolster trade relations between Zimbabwe and Rwanda. She highlighted the pivotal role of infrastructural development in fostering connectivity across the continent, emphasizing the need to enhance trade facilitation. Both countries are actively engaged in various infrastructure projects, with Zimbabwe focusing on road infrastructure development while Rwanda's national carrier, Rwanda Air, recently introduced cargo planes to facilitate intra-Africa trade. The ambassador underscored the crucial goodwill shared between the two nations, essential for advancing mutual interests and driving economic cooperation. The ambassador further elaborated on the areas of mutual benefit emerging from the close partnership between Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Notably, there has been extensive integration in terms of human capital exchange, with over 153 Zimbabwean teachers already deployed in Rwanda, along with pilots and professionals serving across different sectors in both countries. The energy sector stands out as a key area of collaboration, with significant engagement between Rwanda Energy Group and Zimbabwe's ZESA. Additionally, partnerships in academia, healthcare, finance, and various economic sectors are rapidly expanding, laying a strong foundation for sustained growth and development. The deepening trade relations between Zimbabwe and Rwanda signify a promising journey towards enhanced economic cooperation and increased prosperity for both nations. As Rwanda and Zimbabwe forge ahead, the prospects for further collaboration and expansion into new domains continue to brighten. The bilateral ties between the two countries are poised to reach new heights, fueled by a shared commitment to mutual growth and success under the AfCFTA umbrella. In conclusion, the unwavering commitment to enhancing trade ties and facilitating cross-border cooperation between Rwanda and Zimbabwe exemplifies the immense potential for economic synergies within Africa. As both nations navigate the evolving trade landscape under the AfCFTA, the stage is set for a transformative partnership that heralds a new era of prosperity and connectivity across the continent.