Source: Cabinet approves policies to formalise informal sector – herald
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
GOVERNMENT has approved two key policy frameworks aimed at formalising the informal sector and creating sustainable employment as part of efforts to strengthen Zimbabwe’s socio‑economic resilience.
The National Formalisation Strategy and the National Employment Policy (2026–2030) were approved by Cabinet following a presentation by Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi, who chairs the Cabinet Committee on Social Development.
Announcing the development at Tuesday’s post‑Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the policies were designed to respond to evolving economic conditions affecting both workers and businesses.
The National Formalisation Strategy seeks to integrate informal workers and enterprises into the formal economy by improving access to social security, labour rights and financial services.
It also aims to address challenges commonly faced in the informal sector, including lack of social protection, unsafe working conditions, low incomes and limited representation.
Minister Soda said the strategy will create a clear pathway for the growth of small and medium enterprises by removing regulatory barriers and simplifying business registration and access to finance.
“The eight strategic priorities include macro‑economic policies for employment, regulatory review, enterprise development, market and finance access, strengthening representation, and supporting marginalised groups, particularly youth, women, persons with disabilities and veterans of the Liberation Struggle,” he said.
He added that implementation would be supported through coordinated funding from Government, development partners, the private sector and social security institutions, guided by a robust monitoring and evaluation framework.
Meanwhile, the National Employment Policy (2026–2030) updates the 2010 policy framework and seeks to address socio‑economic shifts, including the impact of the Covid‑19 pandemic, while improving coordination among stakeholders.
The policy focuses on aligning education and skills development with economic requirements, with particular emphasis on reducing youth unemployment and addressing skills mismatches.
“It sets ten objectives, including strengthening labour rights, promoting inclusive growth, improving employment services and ensuring safe working conditions,” said Minister Soda.
“The policy emphasises the enforcement of labour laws, enhancement of targeted skills training, enterprise development, and support for rural employment through initiatives such as Village Business Units.”
He said the policy would align with national development plans and international frameworks, supported by a detailed implementation and monitoring plan to track progress.
Overall, the two policy frameworks are expected to promote sustainable employment, strengthen social protection systems and support long‑term economic stability.
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