Harmony Agere
Outgoing European union Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, has hailed his tenure as a period of significant progress in EU-Zimbabwe relations, marked by deepened economic cooperation and robust trade growth.
In an exclusive interview with Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN) this morning, Ambassador von Kirchmann expressed a deep emotional attachment to Zimbabwe, describing the country and its people as having left an indelible mark on him and his family.
“Home is not a place, it’s what people make you feel,” he said, reflecting on his travels across the country.
Since his appointment in October 2022, Ambassador von Kirchmann has overseen renewed EU-Zimbabwe engagement, strengthening trade, investment and dialogue.
“Relations are better than before,” he remarked.
“We built bridges, especially in the economic and trade sectors.”
During his tenure, trade between Zimbabwe and the EU surged by 30 percent, while foreign direct investment from EU Member States jumped by 90 percent.
Zimbabwean exports to the EU reached €255 million in 2024, with the EU emerging as the largest buyer of horticultural products such as avocados and blueberries.
Imports from the EU, mostly machinery, totalled €538 million, reflecting a healthy and complementary trade relationship.
Ambassador von Kirchmann also pointed to successful initiatives like the EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum, which drew nearly 70 European companies, resulting in US$7 million in trade deals.
The European Investment Bank has also extended $100 million in capital to local companies, with a remarkable zero percent default rate.
Beyond trade, the Ambassador highlighted growth and sustainability efforts under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, including €250 million for climate-smart agriculture and support for renewable energy and women’s empowerment initiatives.
Infrastructure development projects such as the Kariba Dam rehabilitation also featured prominently.
At policy level, Ambassador von Kirchmann praised the Government-led debt resolution process and partnership dialogues, saying they are critical in unlocking sovereign lending and further integration.
“This goes beyond finances. It’s about normalisation and working together,” he noted.
On regional cooperation, he emphasised the importance of EU-SADC and EU-AU engagements, especially in addressing transnational challenges such as climate change and regional security.
Zimbabwe’s SADC chairmanship over the past year paved the way for greater visibility and dialogue, including a landmark visit by Poland’s foreign minister.
As Zimbabwe shifts from aid dependency to mutual partnerships, Ambassador von Kirchmann underscored the EU’s evolving approach.
“We’re moving to a model where trade comes first, followed by investment, with aid supporting the foundation,” he explained.
Looking ahead, he urged continuity and ambition.
“Let’s hit the $1 billion mark in trade and see progress on debt clearance. That’s the next milestone,” said the Ambassador.