Zim ready to work with SA to rebuild economy

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Harare - President Robert Mugabe has said Zimbabwe stands ready to work with South Africa in rebuilding its economy.

Speaking after meeting with Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) at Zimbabwe House on Monday, the President said it was not surprising to see South Africa's business community offering a helping hand to the new government to address its challenges.

"It's very encouraging and shows the confidence that South Africa has in us."

BUSA's Patrice Motsepe said Zimbabwe was likely to receive numerous investments in the next two years.

"I have confidence that anyone who commits resources to Zimbabwe will see that the country is a good place to do business in," said Mr Motsepe, one of South Africa's most affluent businessman and owner of the South African Premier League soccer club Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mr Motsepe said the South African business community was willing to come and invest in Zimbabwe, adding that doing so was part of paying back for Zimbabwe's contribution to South Africa's economy.

He expressed satisfaction at the progress being made by the new government to attract investors as well as create a conducive environment for business.

The high-powered delegation arrived in the country on Monday morning and held meetings with Finance Minister Tendai Biti and the local business community.

Zimbabwean Ambassador to South Africa Simon Khaya-Moyo accompanied the 22-member delegation, which included Rev. Frank Chikane, a senior official in the Office of the President of South Africa.

Other members were drawn from South Africa's various economic sectors such as mining, agriculture and construction. BUSA is South Africa's biggest business group that incorporates the Black Business Council and Business South Africa.