Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
THE African Federation for Construction Contractors Associations (AFCCA) has endorsed Zimbabwe’s infrastructure development agenda, signalling interest in joint ventures with local companies to accelerate growth across the sector.
Zimbabwe has, in recent years, recorded significant investment in infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, dams, border posts, airports, power stations, shopping centres, and other social amenities developments that have transformed the country’s economic landscape and supported positive annual growth rates.
An AFCCA delegation currently in Zimbabwe described the country’s infrastructure momentum as key to advancing socio-economic development.
“This is our second time being in Zimbabwe and there is a lot that we have derived based on what we saw last year, infact there are so many developments in Zimbabwe that all need our support so as an Association, we are grateful to be back and see what we can do to scale up projects and help local firms through joint ventures,” African Federation for Construction Contractors Associations Secretary General, Ambassador Hatem Tageldin, said.
Local players in the construction value chain also attributed the sector’s growth to Government support and increased regional collaboration.
“As a country, we are privileged to be hosting this conference which has attracted delegates from several African countries. It gives us the opportunity to network, share ideas and look at what can be done to enhance growth,” Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe president Mrs Elinah Shoko said.
As Zimbabwe’s construction industry is focusing on joint ventures with regional firms, the government has reaffirmed its support for the sector.
Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the construction sector, highlighting major investment opportunities across the country.
“Zimbabwe is currently a ‘construction site’. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr ED Mnangagwa and Vision 2030, my Ministry is spearheading several high-impact areas ripe for investments and partnerships. The New City (Mt Hampden) is a massive project requiring world-class infrastructure, commercial hubs, and smart city technologies. On urban renewal and regeneration, we are revitalising old suburbs and markets.
“We also have a mandate to deliver over one million housing units. We invite AFCCA members to bring innovative, low-cost building technologies to scale up this effort. With resources being decentralised to our 92 local authorities, there are endless opportunities in rural and urban infrastructure, bridges, clinics and administrative centres,” said Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe.
The construction sector is expected to play a key role in economic growth this year, with projections indicating a contribution of five percent to Gross Domestic Product.
