Ruto Arrives in Zimbabwe for 25th COMESA Summit as Leaders Target Regional Economic Growth

President William Ruto has arrived in Harare, Zimbabwe, to attend the 25th Summit of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Heads of State and Government.

The summit brings together regional leaders to discuss economic cooperation, trade expansion, industrial development, and strategies for unlocking Africa’s economic potential through stronger regional partnerships.

Ruto’s attendance comes as African countries continue seeking practical ways to boost intra-African trade, strengthen economic ties, and reduce barriers that limit the movement of goods and services across borders.

In a statement ahead of the summit, the President outlined key priorities, including deepening regional integration, strengthening peace and security, and accelerating implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The discussions are expected to focus on how member states can improve cooperation and create an environment that supports businesses, attracts investment, and promotes sustainable economic growth across the region.

Regional integration remains a major priority for African governments seeking to expand markets for locally produced goods, encourage cross-border investments, and reduce dependence on external markets.

Through COMESA, member states have an established platform for coordinating policies and promoting trade among participating countries. However, translating regional agreements into tangible economic benefits remains a challenge.

Transport costs, border delays, infrastructure gaps, and differences in trade regulations continue to affect businesses operating across African markets.

The summit provides an opportunity for leaders to examine these obstacles and explore measures that could make regional commerce more efficient and competitive.

Another major issue on the agenda is the implementation of the AfCFTA, which seeks to establish a single continental market for goods and services while encouraging greater economic cooperation among African countries.

Accelerating its implementation could provide businesses with access to wider markets, support industrial growth, and create opportunities for manufacturers, farmers, and exporters.

Ruto also highlighted the importance of industrialisation, pointing to the need for African countries to strengthen their productive capacity and increase the value of their natural resources.

Value addition is particularly important because exporting processed products can generate greater economic benefits than relying primarily on raw material exports.

For Kenya, participation in regional economic discussions offers an opportunity to advance trade interests, strengthen partnerships, and explore new markets for Kenyan products.

Cooperation among COMESA members could also support investment in manufacturing, agriculture, infrastructure, and other sectors that contribute to employment and economic development.

Peace and security are equally important to the region’s economic ambitions. Political instability and insecurity can disrupt trade routes, discourage investors, and undermine development projects.

Leaders are therefore expected to consider how stronger cooperation can help create conditions that support stability and sustained economic activity.

Ultimately, the success of the Harare summit will depend on the commitments made and the extent to which member states implement agreed measures.

Businesses and citizens will be looking for practical outcomes, including improved market access, stronger industries, increased investment, and more opportunities for economic growth.

As the meeting proceeds, Ruto and other regional leaders face the task of turning shared ambitions into measurable progress for African economies.