President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Harare on 29 August 2025 at the invitation of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
He is attending the official opening of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show as the Guest of Honour and engaging in a working visit to strengthen bilateral ties.
The agricultural show, hosted annually by the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society, is celebrating its 130th anniversary. This year, under the theme “Building Bridging: Connecting Agriculture, Industry and Commerce”.
In 2024, the event drew 570 exhibitors, including 13 international participants, and attracted around 230 000 visitors.
Ramaphosa strengthening economic relations
Ramaphosa’s visit also aims to reinforce economic cooperation between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Trade between the two countries continues to grow, with South African exports to Zimbabwe valued at R69.2 billion in 2024, up from R57.5 billion in 2023.
Vegetables were the leading export category, contributing R11.9 billion to the total.
Imports from Zimbabwe to South Africa increased from R4.4 billion in 2023 to R5.4 billion in 2024.
More than 120 South African companies currently operate in Zimbabwe across sectors such as mining, aviation, banking, property, retail, construction, tourism, and fast food.
Historical significance
The show has a long tradition of attracting regional leaders.
Former President Nelson Mandela attended the event as the Guest of Honour in August 1994.
Highlighting its role as a platform for agricultural and economic exchange within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Ramaphosa is accompanied by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes and senior government officials.
His visit is expected to support efforts to promote intra-regional trade, deepen economic integration in SADC, and build on the cordial relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Does Ramaphosa’s trip to Zimbabwe align with South Africa’s priorities?
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