By Cimba Shepherd Nhamo
In a move aimed at promoting industrialization and economic growth, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed renowned businessman Elesh Patel as Special Presidential Investment Adviser. Mr. Patel’s primary focus will be on fostering economic ties with Bangladesh, Thailand, and Vietnam, with a particular emphasis on the textile industry.
As a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader, Mr. Patel brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Since February 2022, he has served as a board member of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), where he has played a crucial part in developing the country’s transport system.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira formally presented Mr. Patel with his letter of appointment in Harare on Thursday. During the ceremony, Prof. Murwira underscored the importance of expanding Zimbabwe’s economic ties with Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Thailand.
“These countries have expertise in textiles and the cotton value chain, which aligns with our goals of promoting industrialization and economic growth,” Prof. Murwira explained. “We look forward to working with them to develop our textile industry and create new opportunities for economic growth and development.”
Mr. Patel expressed his gratitude to President Mnangagwa for the appointment and pledged to work tirelessly to promote Zimbabwe’s economic interests. “I am honored to receive this prestigious appointment, and I assure you that I will execute my duties to the highest standard,” he said.
As Special Presidential Investment Adviser, Mr. Patel will be responsible for promoting commercial and economic relations between Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Vietnam. His duties will include identifying investment opportunities, facilitating trade missions, and negotiating partnerships with foreign investors.
The government has emphasized the significance of Mr. Patel’s role in achieving Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an empowered upper-middle-income society. By securing foreign direct investment and strategic partnerships, Mr. Patel will play a crucial part in driving economic growth and development in Zimbabwe.
President Mnangagwa’s administration has made economic development a top priority, with a focus on promoting industrialization, beneficiation, and value addition initiatives. The appointment of Mr. Patel as Special Presidential Investment Adviser is a strategic move to achieve these goals and promote economic growth and development in Zimbabwe.
