daniel chigunwe
Business Writer
THE second edition of the Africa Infrastructure and Built Environment Confex (AfriConfex) pencilled for next month in Bulawayo, is expected to amplify the country’s growth in the construction and infrastructure sectors, promoting collaboration and showcasing latest technologies.
The first edition of the event was held in 2022.
The event is organised in partnership with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development and is being initiated at a time when the Government has embarked on several high impact infrastructural development projects aimed at achieving middle-class economy by 2030.
This year’s exhibition is scheduled to run from 6 to 8 November at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo.
The official opening is planned for the 7th.
The theme “Resilient Cities, Thriving Africa: Building Sustainable Infrastructure for Economic Growth,” AfriConfex 2024 which underscores the critical importance of sustainable infrastructure development in African cities.
In an update, Dr Nicholas Ndebele, chief executive officer said the event, the largest of its kind in Zimbabwe, aligns with the Government’s ambitious plan to establish a middle-class economy by 2030.
“AfriConfex 2024 offers a unique platform for indigenous contractors, equipment suppliers and materials providers to showcase their expertise, explore regional and international opportunities, and stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and legal frameworks within the infrastructure and built environment sector,” said Dr Ndebele.
Dr Ndebele noted that the event’s focus is on promoting collaboration and growth in the construction and infrastructure development sectors, facilitating networking among professionals, showcasing the latest technologies and solutions, and educating attendees on trends, best practices, and regulatory issues.
“National developments such as the Geo Pomona waste management plant attracted interest from visiting presidents during the 44th SADC Summit held in August, with Botswana and Zimbabwe teams recently establishing areas of cooperation in waste management at the invitation of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi.
“This development showcases the country’s technological advancement in the built environment industry, and platforms such as AfriConfex undoubtedly nurture future collaborations and partnerships amongst industry thought leaders and their regional counterparts.”
Exhibition workshops are earmarked for 6 November, AfriConfex Conference and Official Opening set for the next day.
During the workshops, industry experts will delve into the role of sustainable infrastructure in driving economic growth and promoting resilience in African cities.
Human-Centered Innovation in Real Estate Development discussions will focus on the need to update and modernise existing infrastructure to meet the needs of changing cities and populations, designing new infrastructure and upgrading existing infrastructure to cater to growing populations.
The final workshop session will cover methods of funding and financing infrastructure projects, including public-private partnerships, government funding, and innovative financing models, as well as overcoming financial barriers and promoting sustainable infrastructure development that fosters private-public sector partnerships.
Bongani Ndlovu