Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
BULAWAYO’s business sector is positioning itself for increased production in 2026 as industries reopen following the festive season shutdown, buoyed by renewed investment, improved capacity and expectations of economic growth under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
Factories across the country’s traditional industrial hub have resumed operations, with workers returning to production lines and companies outlining plans to scale up output in the new year.
Industrial workers expressed optimism that higher production levels would translate into improved livelihoods and stronger company performance.
Industry players, spanning small, medium and large enterprises say 2026 presents an opportunity to expand capacity, modernise operations and strengthen revenue streams.
Local industrialist, Walter Maketani, said companies were prioritising capital investment to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
“We want to invest in new equipment and move our production mode from manual to fully automated. This will help us to do more production and enable us to fully service our customer base,” Mr Maketani stated.
Manufacturers that invested in machinery last year say they are already positioned for growth. Carousel Finance Manager Similo Gumpo said the firm was targeting a sharp increase in daily production volumes after acquiring modern equipment worth more than US$300 000.
“We invested in new equipment last year, so we are excited about 2026, it is a year where we are aiming at producing over 10 000 units per day in this factory. We acquired modern machinery for over US$300 000 last year in order to push volumes of our product this year,” Mr Gumpo noted.
Bulawayo’s industrial base remains a critical pillar of the national economy, contributing to employment creation, manufacturing output and value addition. Government has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to the city’s industrial revival through policy reforms, infrastructure development and support for private sector investment.
As production lines restart and expansion plans take shape, business leaders say sustained policy consistency and access to finance will be key to unlocking the city’s full industrial potential in 2026.
