British Foreign Minister Hails Stronger UK-Zimbabwe Partnership on First Visit in Seven Years

Harare, Zimbabwe – Lord Collins, Minister for Africa, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, today marked a significant step in UK-Zimbabwe relations during his first official visit to the country in seven years. Speaking at a King’s Birthday Party, Lord Collins emphasized a renewed partnership rooted in equality, respect, and mutual benefit, moving past “deep historical ties” that have sometimes complicated relations.

The visit included a meeting with His Excellency President Mnangagwa and the Acting Foreign Minister, where discussions focused on building a modern partnership between the two nations. Lord Collins outlined three key principles guiding this new approach to Africa: listening, not telling; focusing on long-term growth, not short-term fixes; and forging genuine partnerships to pursue shared interests and discuss diverging areas.

“That kind of partnership needs strong foundations… and for us, trade and investment serves as that rock solid pillar,” Lord Collins stated. He highlighted the latest figures showing annual trade between the UK and Zimbabwe has risen to around half a billion dollars, calling it a “strong trajectory” but stressing the need to “set our sights higher.”

The Minister lauded the Economic Partnership Agreement, which grants Zimbabwean companies access to British markets without duties or quotas. He cited Kuminda, a horticulture company, as an example, noting their work with smallholder farmers to export fresh peas and beans to UK supermarkets and restaurants. Another example given was “Pfunfudza,” a farming technique supported by the UK, which has expanded to benefit over one million households, helping families grow enough food even during droughts.

Beyond trade, Lord Collins underscored the people-to-people connections, describing them as the “only because of the friendship between our people.” He reminisced about the recent Test Match in Nottingham, where thousands of cricket fans gathered to celebrate the first match between the two teams in 22 years, showcasing the “fantastic moment” of unity.

He also acknowledged the significant contributions of Zimbabweans in the UK to the British economy, culture, and frontline services, highlighting Linda Mudzendza, a Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist, as a “shining example” of these contributions.

Lord Collins also drew attention to the “warm ties” evident in Zimbabwe, specifically mentioning midwives who have returned from Buckinghamshire to Zimbabwean hospitals, now using their experience to reduce maternal and newborn deaths.

Concluding his speech, Lord Collins declared, “This is what a modern partnership looks like: respectful, practical, and rooted in shared goals.” He expressed his honor to toast His Excellency President Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe, calling for continued collaboration to build a “brighter future for the UK and Zimbabwe.”