US Ambassador Highlights Corruption as Major Challenge for Zimbabwe
US Ambassador Pamela Tremont referred to corruption as a “cancer” during Independence Day celebrations in Harare. She indicated that it costs Zimbabwe around US$2 billion annually, affecting trade and investment. The latest Corruption Perceptions Index also indicates a declining perception of government integrity. Minister Murwira expressed commitment to improving the investment climate despite not specifically addressing corruption.
The United States Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Pamela Tremont, portrayed corruption as a pervasive issue undermining the nation’s wealth. Calling it a “cancer,” she emphasized its negative impact on trade and investment in Zimbabwe. Her comments came during the 249th US Independence Day celebrations held in Harare on Wednesday, where she expressed concerns over illicit deals costing the country roughly US$2 billion annually.
In her speech, Tremont urged a strong commitment to combating corruption, describing it as corrosive to the investment landscape. She remarked, “A strong stance against corruption is imperative… it robs the Zimbabwean people of the benefit of their precious resources and raises exponentially the cost of doing business in Zimbabwe.” A corruption-free environment, she argued, could transform the investment sector into a thriving opportunity for all.
Tremont reinforced the idea that a healthy investment climate fosters opportunities, linking it to the core freedoms celebrated on Independence Day. She stated, “A healthy, vibrant investment climate would create a culture of opportunity—an opportunity for what our founders 249 years ago called ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.'”
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Amon Murwira, although sidestepping direct comments on corruption, reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s dedication to creating a more favorable investment climate. He invited US investors to participate in the Zimbabwean market, acknowledging that the nation is still evolving in its approach to investment strategies, saying, “In 45 years, we have learned a lot. We are still learning a lot. We are not 249 years.”
Recent reports from Transparency International indicate a deteriorating situation regarding public sector corruption in Zimbabwe. In the latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), Zimbabwe ranks 158th out of 180 countries, highlighting a decrease in perceptions of integrity in governance. This year, the nation has slipped nine positions down from its 149th place in 2023, signaling an escalating problem.
Concerns have also been raised regarding specific projects, such as the Trabablas Interchange in Harare, which has drawn scrutiny for its US$88 million cost. Critics claim that this price is excessively high compared to regional averages, further illustrating issues around financial mismanagement in the country.
Ambassador Tremont’s remarks come at a critical time for Zimbabwe, as the country grapples with deep-seated corruption and strives to improve its international standing. Tackling these issues may be crucial for fostering a stable environment for both domestic and foreign investors.
In summary, US Ambassador Pamela Tremont has highlighted the adverse effects of corruption in Zimbabwe, equating it to a cancer that needs urgent attention. With significant financial losses attributed to corruption and a worrying CPI rating, the call for a corruption-free investment climate is more pressing than ever. The remarks from both Tremont and Murwira underscore a mutual aspiration for a thriving economic future that benefits all Zimbabweans, despite the challenges ahead.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
