Cabinet has approved the National Formalisation Strategy and the National Employment Policy (2026–2030), in a move aimed at strengthening labour rights, expanding social protection and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Honourable Soda Zhemu, said the two policy frameworks mark a significant step towards transforming Zimbabwe’s labour market and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
“Cabinet considered and approved the National Formalisation Strategy, which was presented by Honourable Vice President Col. (Rtd.) Dr. K.C.D. Mohadi as Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Social Development,” said Minister Zhemu.
He said the National Formalisation Strategy is designed to integrate informal sector workers and enterprises into the formal economy by ensuring access to social security, labour rights and financial services.
“Zimbabwe’s National Formalisation Strategy aims to provide workers and businesses with social security, labour rights and financial services, while addressing key challenges such as lack of protection, unsafe workplace conditions, low incomes and limited representation,” he said.
Minister Zhemu added that the strategy will also create a clear pathway for the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through the removal of regulatory barriers and simplification of registration and financing processes.
“The strategy outlines eight strategic priorities, including macroeconomic policies for employment creation, regulatory review, enterprise development, improved market and finance access, strengthening of representation, and targeted support for marginalised groups, particularly youth, women, persons with disabilities and veterans of the Liberation Struggle,” he said.
He noted that implementation of the strategy will be supported by coordinated funding from Government, development partners, the private sector and social security institutions, underpinned by a robust monitoring and evaluation framework.
On the National Employment Policy, Minister Zhemu said Cabinet also approved the new framework following a review of the 2010 National Employment Policy Framework to reflect current socio-economic realities.
“Cabinet also considered and approved the National Employment Policy, which was presented by Honourable Vice President Col. (Rtd.) Dr. K.C.D. Mohadi as Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Social Development,” he said.
“The review seeks to address socio-economic changes, including those experienced during the COVID-19 outbreak, and to improve coordination among stakeholders, while enhancing the linkage between education and economic needs.”
Minister Zhemu said the new policy, which covers the period 2026 to 2030, is aligned with national development priorities and international frameworks, and is geared towards reducing unemployment, particularly among the youth, and addressing skills gaps.
“The comprehensive National Employment Policy sets out ten key objectives, including strengthening labour rights, promoting inclusive economic growth, improving employment services and ensuring safe working conditions,” he said.
He added that the policy places emphasis on enforcement of labour laws, targeted skills development, enterprise’s growth and support for rural employment through initiatives such as Village Business Units.
“Overall, the policy seeks to foster sustainable employment, revamp social protection systems and promote economic resilience in Zimbabwe,” said Minister Zhemu.
He said both frameworks will be implemented through detailed action plans and monitored closely to ensure effective delivery of results.
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