This session explores Zimbabwe, a country in Southern Africa, as an emerging destination for business, investment, and trade engagement. Designed for founders, investors, and professionals curious about international markets, the conversation will break down how U.S.-based companies can approach Zimbabwe through practical, relationship-driven strategies rather than high-risk entry.
Led by Leonard Tshitenge, the session will highlight real opportunities across sectors including technology, agriculture, energy, real estate, creative industries, and the growing remote workforce economy. Participants will gain insight into Zimbabwe’s educated, English-speaking talent base and its position within the Southern African region.
The session will also feature direct perspective from Zimbabwe through ecosystem leader Chido Chimedza, who will share insights on current market activity, business climate, and what U.S. partners should understand when entering or collaborating in the space.
This conversation also introduces a structured pathway to engage further through an upcoming U.S.–Zimbabwe business and trade mission (August 2026), designed to connect participants with vetted partners, institutions, and on-the-ground opportunities.
Zimbabwe Market & Sector Snapshot
Harare (Capital City):
Population: ~2 million (16M nationally)
Economic Role: Center for finance, education, and government
Talent Pool: 30,000+ university graduates annually
One of the most educated, English-speaking workforces in the region
Key Sectors & Ecosystem Opportunities
Farming & Food Systems
→ Agro-processing, food distribution, export opportunities
Technology & Digital Services
→ Startups, outsourcing (BPO), digital platforms
Real Estate & Infrastructure
→ Urban development, housing, commercial expansion
Energy (Solar & Off-Grid Solutions)
→ Power for SMEs, rural electrification, backup systems
Creative Industries
→ Music, fashion, visual arts, cultural exports
Remote Workforce & Global Talent
→ Virtual assistants, research teams, marketing, tech support
Key Takeaways
Understand Zimbabwe’s position within Southern Africa and why it matters for business
Learn practical ways U.S. companies can enter and engage without large upfront risk
Identify sector-based opportunities across multiple industries
Explore Zimbabwe’s remote workforce and global talent potential
Gain insight from on-the-ground ecosystem leadership
Discover a structured pathway to engage through a U.S.–Zimbabwe trade mission
Lead Presenter
Leonard Tshitenge
U.S.–Africa Market Advisor
Special Envoy for African Affairs, WorldBoston
Member, Harvard Business Review Advisory Council
Founder, Consciously Exposed
Featuring
Chido Chimedza
Founder, U.S.–Africa Connect Summit
Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumna
U.S.–Zimbabwe Trade & Investment Ecosystem Leader