‘ACBF anniversary an opportunity’

Lloyd Gumbo Senior Reporter
Government says the hosting of the African Capacity Building Foundation’s 25th anniversary celebrations in May will enable Zimbabwe to showcase its business opportunities to regional and international delegates. President Mugabe will be the guest of honour at the celebrations that will be held alongside the third Capacity Development Forum (CDF) in Harare from May 3-5.

At least 500 delegates from African countries, Europe and the United States are expected to attend the celebrations, a development that will also come as an added advantage for the tourism sector.

The ACBF, that was formed in 1991 is partially owned by African governments with ministers of Finance or Economic Planning from the continent making up its board of governors.

Addressing the media in Harare yesterday, Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa said the country stood to benefit from hosting both the anniversary celebrations and the CDF.

“It’s going to be an important event,” said Minister Chinamasa.

“We expect as many representatives from the member countries. All in all, you should expect an attendance of around 500.

“The participants are usually us as governors, non-governors from the African countries.

“We are also expecting representatives from the multilateral, bilateral and technical partners as well as attendance from embassies and resource persons.”