The International Monetary Fund has praised Zimbabwe’s strong policy implementation after approving the completion of the first review of the country’s 10‑month Staff‑Monitored Programme as recent actions help to consolidate stabilisation gains and underpin a favourable economic outlook.
In a statement on Tuesday, the IMF said Zimbabwe’s economy had remained resilient despite a tougher global environment, with growth reaching 8.3 percent in 2025 and continuing into early 2026 on the back of improved agriculture, robust mining activity and firm gold prices.
“The outlook remains favourable, but risks are tilted to the downside. Growth is projected at five percent in 2026 and 4.2 percent over the medium term, while inflation should remain in single digits under tight policies,” the statement said.
The Bretton Woods institution however cautioned that risks remain from a major El Niño event expected this year and renewed conflict in the Middle East.
It said Zimbabwe’s inflation has stayed low under tight monetary conditions and relative exchange‑rate stability.
Fund staff noted that Staff Monitored Programme implementation had been strong, with all end‑March quantitative targets met, including those on the primary budget balance, net international reserves, external borrowing and monetary‑base growth.
Structural benchmarks for March and June were completed, and the authorities are making progress on subsequent reforms.
The Staff Monitored Programme continues to support prudent fiscal management, with a stronger‑than‑expected primary balance driven by solid revenue collection.
The IMF also commended the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe for maintaining a tight monetary stance to contain inflation and reduce pressure in the foreign‑exchange market.
JN/APA