Zimbabwe is attracting renewed interest from Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, with Tiazhou Okla Automotive Co., also known as Okla Global, exploring the establishment of an electric scooter and battery manufacturing plant in the country.
The potential investment is being facilitated by Treadway, a Hong Kong–based global investment banking firm that connects international investors with African governments and private sector opportunities. The project aligns with Zimbabwe’s industrialisation agenda and could leverage the country’s abundant lithium and other mineral resources to promote local value addition.
Commenting on the development, Kirana Chin, Managing Director for Government Affairs at Treadway (Hong Kong), said Zimbabwe presents a compelling investment case.
“Zimbabwe has a lot of potential and the country’s leadership is brilliant. We are excited to be working with the Government of Zimbabwe alongside our Chinese investors to give new meaning to the economy,” said Chin.
She added that automotive manufacturing is “the first of many investments we are bringing into the country.”
Government efforts to attract investment are being reinforced by the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Tongai Mnangagwa, who has been actively positioning Zimbabwe as a destination for industrial and tourism-led growth.
On employment creation, Mnangagwa said the project would have a major impact.
“It will create at least 5,000 permanent jobs,” said Mnangagwa.
He added that once approved and launched, the project is expected to take about three years to become fully operational, with Zimbabwe set to play a strategic regional role.
“Zimbabwe will be the springboard for distribution to the SADC region. Malawi will be among the countries that benefit,” added Mnangagwa.
Vice President for Africa at Treadway, Fred Muteti, said the firm’s approach prioritises sustainable job creation and skills transfer.
“By bringing investors into key sectors, we aim to create stable jobs, revive local manufacturing, promote import substitution and strengthen regional export potential,” said Muteti.
According to Treadway, the proposed Okla Global investment would mark a major milestone in Zimbabwe’s green industrialisation drive, positioning the country as a regional hub for EV manufacturing and distribution while delivering sustainable jobs, skills transfer and long-term economic value across Southern Africa.
By Mirriam Kaliza
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