Story by Batsirai Shoko
THE second Matabeleland North Investment Indaba opened in Umguza this Thursday, with the province seeking to strengthen public-private partnerships to drive economic growth and increase its Gross Domestic Product.
The annual investment conference brought together urban and rural local authorities, government agencies, investors and development partners to showcase bankable opportunities in tourism, mining, agriculture, renewable energy and infrastructure.
The initiative is aimed at accelerating industrialisation and supporting Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 by leveraging the province’s strategic location, natural resources and expanding infrastructure to attract private investment.
Chairperson of the Matabeleland North Investment Committee, Mr Ngqabutho Moyo, said the province is focusing on investment-ready projects.
“We are positioning our town as an investment destination by identifying projects that are ready for implementation. Through improved infrastructure and efficient service delivery, we are creating opportunities for investors while promoting sustainable economic growth,” he said.
Local authorities said the emphasis has shifted from promoting investment potential to presenting viable projects capable of attracting capital and driving value addition.
“Our district has significant investment potential in tourism, agriculture and mining,” a Rural District Council representative said.
“We are inviting investors to partner with us in projects that will create jobs, improve livelihoods and contribute to the province’s economic transformation,” another representative said.
The conference is expected to strengthen partnerships that will unlock investment, promote value addition and transform the province’s natural resources into industries, jobs and sustainable economic growth.
