BCC lines up 34 events to boost investment

BULAWAYO City Council (BCC) has outlined an ambitious plan to host and participate in 34 economic development events in 2025 as part of its strategy to attract investment, stimulate economic growth, and create employment opportunities.

The local authority has emphasised the importance of fostering innovation and community engagement, with at least 30 economic events scheduled throughout the year.

Among the key events on its calendar are the International Municipal BRICS Forum (African Business RoundTable), the Bulawayo Economic Development Conference (BEDCON), and the Investment and Entrepreneurship Conference — platforms that are expected to strengthen the city’s economic standing both locally and internationally.

According to the latest council minutes, these events are designed to enhance partnerships between various stakeholders, including Government, the private sector, and civil society.

The council said economic development events play a critical role in facilitating dialogue and partnerships that drive local economic expansion. These gatherings will serve as platforms for business leaders, investors, and policymakers to exchange insights, best practices, and innovative strategies aimed at fostering economic growth.

“Economic development events play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and networking among various stakeholders in the business and local government sectors. These events serve as platforms for stakeholders to share insights, best practices, and innovative strategies that contribute to the growth of the local economy,” read council minutes.

“Specifically, events like the Bulawayo Economic Development Conference (BEDCON) and the Investment and Entrepreneurship Conference create an avenue for entrepreneurs, investors, and Government officials to interact directly, thereby stimulating potential partnerships and investment opportunities that could lead to job creation and economic growth.”

BCC also highlighted the importance of international engagements, such as the International Municipal BRICS Forum (African Business RoundTable), which will provide invaluable networking opportunities for local businesses.

“Connecting with international counterparts can help Bulawayo enterprises expand their markets and gain exposure to global industry best practices,” the minutes noted.

Beyond economic development, BCC aims to leverage research and innovation to refine policy decisions.

The City of Bulawayo Research and Innovation Seminar (CoBRIS) is among the scheduled events expected to provide a platform for scholars, industry professionals, and policymakers to share insights that can shape informed governance.

Furthermore, social and community engagement events such as the Bulawayo Women Investment Conference (BIC) and the Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF) will be instrumental in promoting inclusivity and cultural diversity in the local economy.

“By encouraging participation from various demographic groups, these events will amplify the voices of underrepresented communities, ensuring that their needs and perspectives are integrated into economic discussions. This inclusivity fosters social cohesion and a stronger sense of belonging within Bulawayo’s diverse population,” noted the council minutes.

Recognising the importance of innovation in economic growth, BCC plans to create an enabling environment for researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to collaborate on ground-breaking solutions to local economic challenges.

“By bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals, these events promote the exchange of ideas and encourage collaborations that could lead to ground breaking solutions for local economic challenges. This infusion of fresh ideas and technological advancements have the potential to drive economic diversification and sustainability. Furthermore, innovation-related events would boost the city’s visibility on national and international stages, attracting investors and high-skilled labour to the region,” reads the minutes.

BCC also stressed the continued relevance of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), describing it as a crucial platform for showcasing local innovations and fostering connections with potential investors and partners.

The 2025 calendar places a strong emphasis on attracting investment through high-profile conferences and exhibitions, including the Investment and Entrepreneurship Conference and Mine Entra. These events signal Bulawayo’s readiness to facilitate business growth and enhance its reputation as a preferred investment destination.

BCC said promoting investment opportunities strengthens economic dynamism, attracting external investors while incentivising local entrepreneurs to innovate.

“Encouraging a robust investment climate could lead to business expansion, knowledge transfer, and job creation. As the city developed infrastructure and support systems to attract businesses, it created an environment ripe for sustainable economic growth,” said council. — @nqotshili