After more than six years of separation, DI and CZI have been reunited in cooperation. The new power-sharing government in Zimbabwe has provided space again for international cooperation, and CZI is already participating in a regional policy network facilitated by DI, called the ESA BMO network (see page 1). Discussions to explore possibilities of establishing a renewed bilateral partnership have also been initiated
The CEO of CZI, Mr Clifford Sileya, regards the opportunities in renewing the ties to the international community as an open door to the world:
“Overall, we (CZI) are very much excited about the prospects of re-activating the very close relationship we had with DI over the years. We have been rather isolated for too long. Thanks to DI’s efforts, the ESA BMO meetings have drawn us out of our cocoon, and helped us relate to other sister organisations on the continent.”
Mr. Sileya is also aware of the organisational opportunities and challenges that such an opening poses:
“Business wise, we at CZI are really busy. We receive visiting delegations almost every week – people seeking to inquire about the new political dispensation, and how it is impacting on business. These are exciting times.”
9 November 2009