Zimbabwe diaspora remittances surge 22% to US$1.86 billion*
Zimbabwe received US$1.859 billion in diaspora remittances between January and August 2026, a 22% increase from US$1.520 billion recorded during the same period last year, according to Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) figures.
The inflows rose by approximately US$339.2 million, highlighting the growing contribution of Zimbabweans living abroad to household incomes and the countryโs foreign currency supply.
Monthly remittances remained above US$200 million throughout the period, with July recording the highest inflow at US$258.5 million. Ireland, Canada and Botswana were among the leading sources of remittances in the reported country breakdown.
Economic commentators say Zimbabwe should go beyond relying on diaspora funds for household consumption and encourage investment in agriculture, housing, manufacturing and small businesses.
They called for transparent investment opportunities, predictable policies and stronger investor protection to attract diaspora savings into productive sectors of the economy.
The sustained growth in remittances presents Zimbabwe with an opportunity to strengthen foreign currency inflows, support economic activity and mobilise resources for national development. *_-Chronicle_*
