Online Reporter
Judith Phiri, Zimpapers Business Hub
Fifty-four Bulawayo companies and organisations were recognised at the Bulawayo Business Awards 2025 for their impact on their communities and contribution to the city’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The awards ceremony, held recently, was organised by Youth Network Connect (YNC) and The Entrepreneurs Corner, running under the theme: “Rewarding Business and Entrepreneurial Excellence.”
Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Raj Modi, who officiated at the awards, said localisation remained a cornerstone of national competitiveness, in line with the Government’s efforts to unlock Zimbabwe’s industry and trade potential.
“This is through structured support of the production and consumption of local goods and services.
These are the synergies envisioned by President Mnangagwa in the National Development Strategies 1 and 2, where ministries are mandated to pursue accelerated growth anchored on private sector-led development,” said Deputy Minister Modi.
He said the Government was committed to fostering entrepreneurship through policies that support business start-ups and sustainability.
“Together, we can build a prosperous and sustainable future for Bulawayo and Zimbabwe. These awards encourage more innovation, success, and growth in the city’s business landscape,” he added.
Deputy Minister Modi also urged collaboration among businesses to harness trade as both a driver of economic growth and a tool for empowerment.
Speaking during the same event, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube said the city’s history was etched with tales of triumph from being the country’s industrial hub to fostering some of the continent’s most brilliant minds.
“Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in our journey, where the seeds of progress we plant will blossom into a future of prosperity for generations to come,” she said.
“In our pursuit of economic revival, we must first capitalise on the low-hanging fruit, those sectors where quick wins can catalyse broader growth. Bulawayo is blessed with abundant opportunities.”
Local Government and Public Works Deputy Minister Albert Mavhunga said in the era of rapid technological advancement, businesses needed to embrace innovation.
“We must adapt to changing market dynamics and explore new avenues for growth. I urge all companies and entrepreneurs to leverage technology to enhance the operations, reach new customers, and create value in their communities,” he said.
Deputy Minister Mavhunga said Zimbabwe has embarked on a number of initiatives aimed at market expansion and product development in an effort to enhance trade and diversify the economy.
He said the Government was promoting the establishment of core venture clusters through collaboration with major private investors whose investments are expected to bring about opportunities for both forward and backward linkages along the value chains.
“We are also implementing the product value chain to facilitate rural and urban industrialisation. At a regional level, Zimbabwe is an active participant in regional integration and cooperation efforts in SADC aimed at facilitating trade and industrial development,” said Deputy Minister Mavhunga.
YNC managing director, Mr Philimon Nyirenda, said the awards were not just about the luminaries who basked in the limelight, but also about the spirit of Bulawayo’s resilience.
“The future of our economy lies in innovation, collaboration, and a bold belief in local potential.
Bulawayo has always been a city of pioneers,” he said.
“From our early days as an industrial powerhouse to our status as a breeding ground for cutting-edge start-ups and social enterprises, one thing remains constant: our spirit of ‘Ubuntu’.”
Londile Moyo
Bongani Ndlovu