On 19 March, the Government of Zimbabwe and the UN system held a full-day workshop in Harare to validate the strategic priorities for the 2027–2031 Zimbabwe UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (ZUNSDCF). Over 130 delegates participated, representing government, UN agencies, development partners, civil society, private sector, labour unions, youth and women's groups, persons with disabilities, think tanks, and media.

The workshop was co-chaired by the Office of the President and Cabinet and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator. Delegates validated five strategic priorities, which were refined through group and plenary discussions:

1. Inclusive Economic Growth, Structural Transformation, Decent Work and Financing for Development

2. Inclusive Climate Resilience, Renewable Energy, Food Security and Sustainable Natural Resource Management

3. Human Capital Development (Health, Nutrition, Education, Skilling) and Social Protection

4. Inclusive Governance, Human Rights, Rule of Law and Social Cohesion

5. Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment and Social Inclusion

Key cross-cutting themes included leaving no one behind, youth empowerment, disability inclusion, private sector competitiveness, and data-driven accountability. The private sector welcomed its recognized role, emphasizing an enabling environment and shared value creation.

The Cooperation Framework extends one year beyond national strategies (NDS 2, Vision 2030) to ensure smooth transitions and alignment with UN programming cycles. The UN Resident Coordinator described the framework as both a development and prevention tool, integrating humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts.

Next steps include finalizing the framework document, defining indicators, baselines, targets, and resource mobilization. All stakeholders committed to joint accountability for building a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Zimbabwe.