Mining Finance: Zimbabwean banks have syndicated US$125m to back Mutapa Gold’s Shamva Hill and Jena Mine expansion, a major vote of confidence in local mining finance. Energy Push: Government is seeking over US$9bn for energy expansion, banking on private capital and new rules to cut power shortages and speed industrialisation. Solar Growth Tracking: ZERA says it will survey with ZIMSTAT to measure how much electricity demand is now being met by privately funded solar systems. BRICS Development Funding: Zimbabwe has joined the BRICS New Development Bank as a borrowing member, aiming to unlock long-term financing for infrastructure, energy and industrial projects. Capital Markets for SMEs: Zimbabwe is moving to deepen capital markets via ZEEX to help SMEs access finance and scale beyond traditional bank limits. Industrial Recovery: Research presented at ZICE 2026 says manufacturing is shifting from survival to strategic growth, with more investment in upgrades and export competitiveness. Critical Minerals Exports: Mineral export earnings jumped 84% to a record US$2.532bn in H1 2026, led by PGMs and lithium products, including first lithium sulphate shipments. Agriculture Policy: A policy push argues agriculture must be repositioned as the foundation of industrial recovery, linking production to manufacturing, finance and exports. Regional Migration Pressure: Reports highlight Zimbabweans fleeing South Africa amid xenophobic violence, with returnees needing support systems. Trade & Logistics Reality Check: A regional transport study estimates cross-border disruption costs South Africa up to R16bn a year, with long delays at key gateways.