South Africa organised the Fourth (4th) Session of the South Africa-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission in Pretoria on Friday, August 21, 2026. There, President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthen historic relationship with Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe is one of South Africa’s largest trading partners, with bilateral trade that counts as nearly double the past four years.
Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the session and highlighted the deep historical ties between the two nations. He extended his gratitude to Zimbabwe for supporting South Africans while struggling against apartheid.
He also extended his condolences to the people who died in the Lake Kariba ferry tragedy that claimed almost 100 lives in Zimbabwe.
The SA President called for improvement in trade imbalance and increase for cooperation in mining, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, water and border management. He also explained the importance of peace and stability across Africa.
Pres. Ramaphosa officially declared the Fourth Bi-National Commission open and congratulated Zimbabwe on its election to a non-permanent UN Security Council seat for the year 2027-28.
During the Session, he also urged for stronger economic cooperation between South Africa and Zimbabwe. He emphasised the need to move beyond traditional trade. He advised to work towards joint industrial development, investment and job creation.
🇿🇦 H.E. President @CyrilRamaphosa receives H.E. President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the Republic of #Zimbabwe on his arrival in #Pretoria for the Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (#BNC).
The Fourth Session of the #BNC provides an
1/2 pic.twitter.com/IawqruVygg— Southern Africa Diplomat (@DIPLOMAT_AFRICA) August 21, 2026
Increase Bilateral Trade
Earlier South Africa also organised South Africa-Zimbabwe Business Forum in Midrand, where Ramaphosa welcomed President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and talked about strong historical ties between the two countries. He mentioned that the bilateral trade reached R81 billion in 2025 and recorded the double figure than 2021.
SA president noted that trade remains heavily imbalanced, as South Africa exports only finished goods, while Zimbabwe mainly exports raw and semi-processed materials. Ramaphosa demanded for greater benefits, along with joint ventures and cross-border industrial development. The leaders also highlighted various improvements observed at the Beitbridge Border Post and plans for a One-Stop Border Post.
According to him, stronger cooperation, investment in infrastructure and business partnerships can promote inclusive growth, create employment and unlock greater prosperity for both nations.
Unlock Mutual Benefits
At the Fourth Session of the South Africa-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission in Pretoria, presidents of both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to boost cooperation.
Considering this, the meeting showcased strong bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between both nations. They also recognised the need to unlock greater opportunities for mutual benefit.
South Africa and Zimbabwe also signed agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) that aims at expanding cooperation while boosting trade and investment. It will mainly focus on key areas such as agriculture, energy, mining, transport, water, tourism, finance, medicines, vaccines and digital technology.
SA president Cyril Ramaphosa described Zimbabwe as a strategic partner and one of South Africa’s largest trading partners. He said that government of both countries will work to improve the movement of people and goods.
Together they will promote industrialisation and initiate efforts against cross-border crime. The leaders also gave commitment on the agreed projects, that they will be implemented ahead of the Fifth Bi-National Commission.