Nigerian entrepreneur Aliko Dangote has committed approximately $1 billion toward investments in Zimbabwe following 18 months of negotiations led by journalist and businesswoman Josey Mahachi alongside Bard Santner, Chief Executive Officer, and Senziwani Sikhosana. The agreement targets cement manufacturing, coal mining, power generation, and fuel pipeline infrastructure connecting to Walvis Bay in Namibia. Dangote previously abandoned similar plans a decade earlier under former President Robert Mugabe due to unfavorable business conditions.
Mahachi acknowledged nearly abandoning efforts to revive discussions with the billionaire after difficulties encountered during his initial 2015 visit to the country. She partnered with Sikhosana to visit Dangote Group facilities in Nigeria, which eventually resulted in the businessman returning to Zimbabwe and signing the substantial investment package. Dangote credited improved economic circumstances under President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his renewed interest. Implementation has already begun with Dangote representatives arriving in Zimbabwe to advance the projects.
Mahachi acknowledged nearly abandoning efforts to revive discussions with the billionaire after difficulties encountered during his initial 2015 visit to the country. She partnered with Sikhosana to visit Dangote Group facilities in Nigeria, which eventually resulted in the businessman returning to Zimbabwe and signing the substantial investment package. Dangote credited improved economic circumstances under President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his renewed interest. Implementation has already begun with Dangote representatives arriving in Zimbabwe to advance the projects.
