UNDP calls for economic reforms

UN Development Programme Resident Representative, Victor Angelo, has called for more "market-based" reforms and consultations with the international community as key steps towards Zimbabwe's recovery. In opening remarks last week to a workshop on the Tripartite Negotiating Forum (TNF) - which brings together government, labour and business - Angelo applauded the dialogue process that led to Zimbabwe's National Economic Revival Programme (NERP), describing it as a "ray of hope" along a difficult path of economic revival. "The success of NERP [launched in February 2003] is dependent on the full support of all players in the economy. The most difficult challenge pertains to the establishment of a macro-economic environment that is conducive to meaningful participation of all sectors, as well as the support of international players in realising the objectives of the NERP," Angelo said. "The economy would immensely benefit from more market-based policies, and less administrative constraints, that would address the prevailing hyperinflation, acute shortages of basic commodities and worsening poverty," he added. "We believe that there is need for the government and its social partners to actively engage with international development assistance providers. The declining economic performance and the deteriorating humanitarian situation makes it more imperative for stakeholders to urgently explore ways of enhancing consultation with the international community on programme areas, and on the mobilisation of financial and technical resources." Angelo stressed: "Of particular significance is the area of HIV/AIDS. The escalation of the epidemic has had severe effects on socio-economic development. The international community, in consultation with stakeholders, could enhance support to ongoing national efforts in terms of HIV/AIDS prevention, care, support, treatment and mitigation. A further area that could benefit from donor support within the context of the goals of the NERP is capacity building and strengthening, particularly in the delivery of public services."