‎In a high-level meeting reflecting the convergence of leadership, innovation, and global investment, Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, hosted prominent entrepreneur Prateek Suri, widely recognised as Africa’s youngest billionaire and the richest Indian on African soil, with an estimated net worth of USD 1.9 billion. ‎

‎The strategic engagement was also attended by Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, highlighting the government’s strong focus on digital transformation and innovation-led growth. The meeting centered on forging long-term partnerships to accelerate Zimbabwe’s development through technology, manufacturing, and public-private collaboration.
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‎Representing his diversified conglomerate, Maser Group, and its investment arm, MDR Investments, Prateek Suri reaffirmed his commitment to jointly investing in Zimbabwe’s future. He outlined plans for collaborative funding and strategic deployment of capital through these platforms, aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs, strengthening industrial capacity, and building globally competitive ecosystems.
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‎A major highlight of the discussion was the proposal to establish a Joint Innovation Hub focused on nurturing startups in the ICT sector. The hub is envisioned as a center for mentorship, venture funding, incubation, and market access, supporting young innovators in areas such as fintech, software development, artificial intelligence, and digital services. Through the combined resources of Maser Group and MDR Investments, the initiative aims to connect Zimbabwean talent with international expertise and funding networks.
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‎Beyond technology, the dialogue explored opportunities in advanced manufacturing and industrial development. Prateek Suri expressed interest in supporting modern production facilities that integrate smart systems, sustainable practices, and workforce training. These projects are expected to enhance local value addition, reduce import dependence, and expand export potential.
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‎Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models formed another key pillar of the engagement. Both sides acknowledged that structured PPP frameworks are essential for delivering large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects.
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‎ Through joint participation between government institutions, Maser Group, and MDR Investments, Zimbabwe can leverage private capital and efficiency while safeguarding national development priorities.
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‎President Mnangagwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering an investor-friendly environment built on transparency, policy stability, and institutional support. He welcomed Prateek Suri’s vision of blending profitability with social impact, particularly in youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and skills development.
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‎Minister Tatenda Mavetera highlighted the importance of global partnerships in strengthening Zimbabwe’s digital economy, expanding connectivity, and building cybersecurity and innovation capabilities.
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‎Adding to the confidence surrounding the engagement, Ben Chia, a key shareholder of Maser Group, expressed strong faith in Suri’s leadership, stating, “We trust Prateek Suri wherever he invests. He is a true visionary who sees opportunities not just for profit, but for long-term transformation.”
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‎The meeting concluded on a highly optimistic note, with both sides agreeing to pursue structured follow-ups to convert strategic ideas into actionable projects. As Zimbabwe advances its development agenda, the partnership with Prateek Suri, Maser Group, and MDR Investments signals a new chapter of growth—powered by innovation, entrepreneurship, and shared prosperity.