Introduction
As part of ongoing efforts to modernise the business environment, the Government of Zimbabwe has introduced mandatory company re-registration under the Companies and Other Business Entities Act [Chapter 24:31] (COBE Act).
If your business was incorporated under the old Companies Act, or as a Private Business Corporation (PBC), you are now required to re-register before 20 April 2026. This blog explains what the new rules mean, who’s affected, and how you can stay compliant.
What is Company Re-registration?
Re-registration is the process of updating your company’s legal status under the new COBE Act. It ensures that your company information is up to date and aligns with current legislation.
It also helps the Companies Registry maintain an accurate database of active businesses and ensures your entity remains legally recognised.
Who Needs to Re-register?
Re-registration applies to:
- Companies incorporated under the old Companies Act.
- Private Business Corporations (PBCs).
- Foreign companies operating in Zimbabwe.
- Other business entities registered under repealed laws.
If you fall into any of these categories, you must re-register to maintain your legal standing.
Legal Basis and Deadlines
The re-registration requirement is set out in Section 303(9) of the COBE Act.
According to Statutory Instrument 108 of 2025, all affected companies must complete the process by 20 April 2026.
Failure to comply may result in automatic deregistration, meaning your company will no longer legally exist.
What Happens if You Don’t Re-register?
If your company misses the deadline, the consequences can be severe:
- ❌ Deregistration from the Companies Registry
- ⚠️ Loss of legal recognition and protection
- 💸 Forfeiture of company assets to the State
- 🧾 Loss of company name rights
Re-registering ensures business continuity and protects your assets and brand identity.
Documents Required for Re-registration
You’ll need the following:
- Certificate of Incorporation and CR documents (CR5, CR6, Memorandum & Articles).
- Details of directors and shareholders.
- Updated registered office address.
- Proof of up-to-date annual returns.
- Completed re-registration forms (Tenth Schedule).
- Prescribed government fees.
Step-by-Step Re-registration Process
- Confirm your company’s status under the old Act.
- Gather all incorporation and shareholder documents.
- Complete the official re-registration forms.
- Pay the prescribed statutory fees.
- Submit your application to the Registrar of Companies.
- Receive confirmation once your new certificate is issued.
💡 Tip: Seek assistance from a registered company secretary or chartered accountant to avoid errors or delays.
Best Practices for a Smooth Process
- Begin early — don’t wait until the last month.
- Clear all outstanding annual returns.
- Keep both digital and physical copies of your documents.
- Update your company information (directors, address, etc.) before re-registration.
How Daystar Moorgate Advisory Can Help
At Daystar Moorgate Advisory, we simplify the re-registration process for you.
Our Company Secretarial Services include:
- Reviewing your current registration status
- Preparing and submitting re-registration documents
- Updating director/shareholder information
- Handling compliance with COBE Act requirements
We ensure your company stays legally compliant, operational, and ready for growth.
📞 Contact us today to start your company re-registration with expert support and peace of mind.
Conclusion
The 2026 re-registration deadline is fast approaching. By acting now, you protect your company’s legal identity, assets, and reputation.
Don’t risk deregistration — ensure compliance today.
