Story by Aifheli Mudau
THE Zimbabwe Investment and Development Authority (ZIDA) is on a stakeholder engagement drive, to transform public-private partnerships (PPPs) into bankable and marketable projects that can attract significant investment.
The initiative, which is part of ZIDA’s broader strategy to promote investment and economic growth, seeks to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to develop PPP projects that meet international standards, thereby luring investments that can drive economic growth.
Stakeholders drawn from the southern region expressed optimism about the potential of these engagements to revolutionise the way PPPs are packaged and presented to investors.
“These engagements are crucial for us to understand how we can package our projects in a way that is attractive to investors. By working closely with ZIDA and other stakeholders, we can develop PPPs that deliver tangible benefits to our communities,” said one of the stakeholders.
He added, “Viable PPPs can bring much-needed infrastructure and services to our rural areas, creating jobs and improving the livelihoods of our people. We are excited about the possibilities that these engagements present.”
As government forges ahead with providing a supportive environment for PPPs, the operationalisation of the Project Preparation and Development Fund (PPDF) is set to drive the implementation of high-quality projects countrywide.
“Over the last year, notable Southern Region projects approved and under implementation include old Gwanda Road upgrading construction and tolling of the 120km old Gwanda Road, valued at USD$110 million and the construction of a dam at the confluence of the Thuli and Moswa rivers, and a 152km water pipeline to Limpopo province in South Africa. Government has set aside a Project Preparation and Development Fund (PPDF) under the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development with the sole purpose of financing the undertaking of feasibility studies,” said the Permanent Secretary for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Mr Paul Nyoni.
ZIDA chief executive officer Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo and Board chairperson, Mr Busisa Moyo underscored the importance of aligning Zimbabwe’s development and investment strategies with regional standards.
“We engaging stakeholders so that we assist them to come up with viable PPPs that can benefit their communities,” said Mr Chinamo.
Mr Moyo said, “The recently concluded SADC Industrialization Week highlighted the importance of collaboration and harmonization among member states. By aligning our PPP strategies with regional standards, we can attract more investors and enhance our competitiveness.”
This year, the southern region of the country has attracted new investment projects valued at US$936 million, as the Second Republic continues to provide an investor-friendly business environment.
