Sweden sees signs of progress in Zimbabwe's economy, even as it prepares to close its embassy in Harare. Ambassador Per Lindgärde says lower inflation and a more stable financial climate could help the country draw fresh investment from abroad.
During talks with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, the retired general, Lindgärde pointed to changes he has seen since arriving three years ago. One figure stood out. Inflation had dropped to 2.9% in August, a level Zimbabwe had not seen in years.
But there is still a catch. Zimbabwe has unpaid debts to global lenders, and the ambassador believes clearing those arrears could make it easier to borrow money at lower rates.
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) program could also help, according to Lindgärde. Access to cheaper loans would give Zimbabwe more room to fund roads, other major projects, and industrial growth.
Meanwhile, Sweden's embassy shutdown is part of a wider review of its overseas missions. Four other African nations face similar changes, rather than Zimbabwe being singled out.
That does not mean all Swedish aid will stop. Stockholm plans to keep funding projects through regional programs and work focused on specific needs, such as child safety and support for women and girls.
Some ties between public agencies will carry on as well. Sweden's Public Health Agency is working toward an agreement with Zimbabwe's Ministry of Health, while civil society groups may still receive assistance.
For Lindgärde, steady economic gains could make Zimbabwe more appealing to foreign investors. His view is that lower inflation, debt relief, and better access to funding would help create the conditions for further growth.
During talks with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, the retired general, Lindgärde pointed to changes he has seen since arriving three years ago. One figure stood out. Inflation had dropped to 2.9% in August, a level Zimbabwe had not seen in years.
But there is still a catch. Zimbabwe has unpaid debts to global lenders, and the ambassador believes clearing those arrears could make it easier to borrow money at lower rates.
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) program could also help, according to Lindgärde. Access to cheaper loans would give Zimbabwe more room to fund roads, other major projects, and industrial growth.
Meanwhile, Sweden's embassy shutdown is part of a wider review of its overseas missions. Four other African nations face similar changes, rather than Zimbabwe being singled out.
That does not mean all Swedish aid will stop. Stockholm plans to keep funding projects through regional programs and work focused on specific needs, such as child safety and support for women and girls.
Some ties between public agencies will carry on as well. Sweden's Public Health Agency is working toward an agreement with Zimbabwe's Ministry of Health, while civil society groups may still receive assistance.
For Lindgärde, steady economic gains could make Zimbabwe more appealing to foreign investors. His view is that lower inflation, debt relief, and better access to funding would help create the conditions for further growth.
