Pretoria, South Africa – The Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) concluded today in Pretoria, reaffirming the deep historical and strategic relations between the two Southern African nations. Co-chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the commission saw the signing of several key agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Key agreements signed today covered critical areas including agriculture, gender equality, correctional services, diplomacy, and arts and culture. President Ramaphosa emphasized the need to strengthen economic ties, particularly focusing on balancing trade between the two countries. While bilateral trade has nearly doubled in the last four years, South Africa currently exports significantly more to Zimbabwe than it imports.
The leaders called for utilizing existing bilateral mechanisms and the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to increase trade volume and balance its composition. Discussions also highlighted potential for cooperation in energy, water, and infrastructure development, with institutions like the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the Industrial Development Corporation ready to invest in high-impact projects in Zimbabwe.
A significant moment of the session included President Ramaphosa congratulating Zimbabwe on its recent election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, expressing confidence that Zimbabwe would champion African development issues on the global stage.
Key Players Involved
- President Cyril Ramaphosa: Co-chaired the BNC, called for stronger economic ties and balanced trade.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Co-chaired the BNC, represented Zimbabwe in deepening bilateral relations.
- Minister Ronald Lamola (SA): Signed an MoU on collaboration between the Zimbabwe Foreign Service Institute and South Africa’s Diplomatic Academy.
- Minister Professor Amon Murwira (Zimbabwe): Signed an MoU on collaboration between the Zimbabwe Foreign Service Institute and South Africa’s Diplomatic Academy.
Event Timeline
- Friday, August 21, 2026: Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission held in Pretoria, with agreements signed.
