Zimbabwe And Iran Are Solidifying Their Bilateral Ties, Focusing On A Strategic Partnership In The Medical Tourism Sector

Published on December 4, 2025

A significant stride in diplomatic and economic relations has recently been reported, with the Islamic Republic of Iran expressing substantial interest in partnering with Zimbabwe within the rapidly growing sector of medical tourism. This potential collaboration is regarded as a key area of bilateral interest, which is anticipated to receive primary focus during the forthcoming ninth session of the Mid-Term Review of the Zimbabwe-Iran Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation. Such high-level deliberations are being scheduled for later this month and are set to precede an important anticipated State Visit to Iran by President Mnangagwa.

The crucial information regarding this partnership was formally shared by the Iranian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ambassador Amir Hosseini, during a diplomatic engagement. The revelation was made following a courtesy call paid upon Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga yesterday. This exchange of diplomatic pleasantries served as the platform for underscoring the mutual benefits that could be derived from intensified cooperation, particularly in areas where Iranian expertise and capabilities are internationally recognised. The establishment of formal frameworks for collaborative efforts is therefore being sought by both nations, ensuring that the health and economic sectors of Zimbabwe are substantially boosted by this strategic engagement. The exploration of this collaboration is viewed not merely as a commercial venture but as a profound commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality across Southern Africa.

Foundations for Health Sector Advancement

The expansion of the health tourism industry stands as a cornerstone of the proposed partnership. Medical tourism, defined by the travel of patients to other countries for specialised treatment, represents a lucrative and essential sector where Iran has garnered significant global recognition. The development of robust infrastructure and the training of highly skilled professionals are prerequisites for a flourishing health tourism sector, and the transfer of knowledge and establishment of joint ventures in this domain are considered viable options. Through the sharing of best practices and investment in specialised medical facilities, the capacity for Zimbabwe to attract regional and international patients would be dramatically increased.

Strategic Independence in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

A particularly compelling area of interest for the Government of Zimbabwe is the ability to tap into Iran’s remarkable success in the manufacturing of medical drugs and related consumables. This desire is rooted in the impressive national achievement reported by Iran, where up to 95 percent of all the country’s medical requirements are locally manufactured. Such a high degree of self-sufficiency in the pharmaceutical sector is a powerful testament to the country’s scientific prowess and commitment to national health security.

The attainment of local manufacturing capacity for essential medicines is viewed as a vital step towards ensuring the resilience and affordability of the Zimbabwean healthcare system. The dependence on imported pharmaceuticals often leads to vulnerabilities related to supply chain disruptions and volatile pricing mechanisms. By engaging with Iran, the possibility of technology transfer, establishment of joint pharmaceutical production facilities, and training of local scientists and technicians is being explored. A framework is being sought that would allow for the gradual but deliberate localisation of drug production, encompassing everything from basic non-prescription medicines to complex, specialised treatments.

Diplomatic Dialogue and Implementing Prior Commitments

During the meeting with Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga, Ambassador Hosseini elaborated on the discussions held, confirming that their focus was centred upon the successful implementation of cooperation agreements that had previously been entered into by the two Governments. The atmosphere of the meeting was characterised by the Ambassador as a great and true pleasure, and it was indicated that insightful and thoughtful remarks regarding the status of the bilateral relations were received from VP Chiwenga.

It was confirmed that the two nations had previously established a comprehensive foundation for cooperation when President Mnangagwa met with his then counterpart, President Ebrahim Raisi, during the latter’s State visit to Zimbabwe in 2023. This significant diplomatic exchange resulted in the signing of 12 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), which covered diverse sectors of the economies. The current diplomatic engagements, therefore, are being conducted with the purpose of moving beyond mere commitment and into the phase of practical execution and tangible results. The necessity for determined and decisive steps in promoting bilateral relations was emphasised by Ambassador Hosseini. The constructive and positive nature of the discussions was repeatedly highlighted, affirming the high degree of mutual respect and commitment that permeates the relationship between the two nations.

Anticipated High-Level Visits and Future Direction

Beyond the immediate plans for health sector cooperation, the continued dialogue regarding the high-level political area was also a central point of discussion. The anticipation of the visit by His Excellency President of Zimbabwe Dr Mnangagwa to Iran was explicitly mentioned, a trip that is expected to solidify and elevate the agreements made at the ministerial and ambassadorial levels. Such a State Visit would be indicative of the serious commitment to deepening ties and exploring further avenues for collaboration across various sectors, including trade, mining, and technology.

Furthermore, a forthcoming visit to Zimbabwe by Iran’s first Vice President, Dr Aref, was also discussed. These reciprocal high-level visits serve as critical opportunities for reviewing existing MoUs, initiating new agreements, and providing the necessary political impetus to accelerate joint projects. The momentum generated by these exchanges is considered vital for transforming diplomatic intentions into concrete economic and social outcomes. The long-term vision being pursued is one of sustained partnership, wherein the strengths of each nation are leveraged for mutual prosperity and development.