Story by Margaret Matibiri, Online Executive
MASHONALAND Central is leveraging the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) 2026 to advance its economic agenda, presenting itself as a competitive destination for both investment and tourism.
The province, under the leadership of Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Christopher Magomo, has brought together all its 10 local authorities in a coordinated exhibition that highlights opportunities across key sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism and property development.
Engaging stakeholders at the ongoing trade showcase, Minister Magomo emphasised that ZITF remains a critical interface for attracting both domestic and international capital.
“This platform allows us to directly engage potential investors while demonstrating the diversity of opportunities within Mashonaland Central. We are showcasing projects that are ready for implementation across multiple sectors,” he said.
Academic institutions are also playing a visible role in the province’s presentation.
Bindura University of Science Education is using the platform for both student recruitment and innovation display, while Madziva Teachers’ College is exhibiting education-focused initiatives aligned with skills development.
Private sector players have added depth to the exhibition, with agro-processing firm Africa’s Preserves drawing interest through its range of value-added food products, underscoring the province’s shift towards beneficiation.
Tourism and infrastructure development have emerged as central pillars of Mashonaland Central’s investment pitch. Mazowe Rural District Council has highlighted its growing profile as a hub for real estate and tourism, supported by ongoing modernisation efforts.
Council chairman, Mr John Mudzonga, noted that cultural infrastructure is playing a transformative role, citing the Baradzanwa Cultural Centre as a flagship project enhancing the district’s tourism appeal.
“We are seeing increased investor interest as we continue to develop both our tourism offering and supporting infrastructure,” he said.
In addition, the district showcased its expanding citrus industry, where large-scale production is being integrated with processing facilities to supply both domestic and export markets.
Ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly the upgrading of the Harare-Mazowe Road, are expected to further unlock economic potential by improving accessibility and facilitating trade.
ZITF 2026, which continues to attract a broad spectrum of exhibitors and international participants, remains a key platform for promoting industrialisation, innovation and regional economic integration.
For Mashonaland Central, the fair has become an opportunity to reposition itself not only as a resource-rich province, but as an emerging centre for investment, enterprise and cultural tourism.
