admin
Gibson Mhaka
THE city of Bulawayo has been transformed into a hive of activity, with huge volumes of people and vehicles noticeable as it hosts the 21st Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference.
The event, which kicked off on Tuesday and ends on Saturday, has brought thousands of delegates from across Zimbabwe to the city, creating a palpable buzz of excitement and anticipation.
The city’s streets are bustling with people and vehicles, hotels are fully booked, and businesses are thriving as they cater to the influx of visitors and delegates.
Bulawayo has rarely witnessed such a high level of activity as it is experiencing, with the exception of the annual Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which is held in April each year.
The business community in Bulawayo is enthusiastic about the conference, as such events can significantly boost business activity. The influx of delegates and visitors has created opportunities for businesses to generate revenue through various means, such as accommodation, transportation, catering, and retail.
Major hotels and lodges in Bulawayo have reportedly run out of booking space as the city hosts over 4 000 delegates for the conference.
The Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) vice president, Kudzai Ratisai confirmed that major hotels and lodges were fully booked, expressing excitement over the lucrative business opportunity.
“As HAZ, we are very excited to host this conference. It’s a significant boost for Bulawayo. Our members’ properties, hotels, and lodges are fully booked,” said Ratisai. He added, “We currently have no rooms available.”
Local businessman Tonderai Rice who is invested in the hospitality and entertainment industry hailed President Mnangagwa and the ruling party for holding the rotational conference in Bulawayo.
“What we appreciate the most is that since coming into power, President Mnangagwa announced a new way of doing things, devolving the holding of national events, moving them from Harare where they were traditionally held over the years and hosting them in different parts of the country.
“As Bulawayo, we were the first to benefit from the policy shift to become the first province to host the 42nd Independence Celebrations at Barbourfields in Bulawayo in 2022. We recorded massive business thanks to the wise leadership of President
Mnangagwa in devolving the hosting of national events. While the conference has always been rotational, we especially appreciate the devolution of national events.”
Entrepreneur and Sentrail Investments chief executive officer Dzikamai “DZ” Hungwe expressed gratitude for the substantial economic benefits brought by the conference, highlighting the positive impact it has had on local businesses.
“The influx of delegates and visitors has significantly boosted local businesses, leading to increased revenue and new opportunities for growth. Such events are vital for stimulating the local economy and fostering business development. This serves as a testament to Bulawayo’s potential as an attractive investment destination,” Hungwe said.
A restaurant owner who asked not to be named enthusiastically welcomed the hosting of the Zanu PF National People’s conference in the city, saying they have recorded a significant increase in business.
“As restaurant owners, we are delighted with the brisk business we’ve experienced as a result of the conference. We commend the President’s decision to decentralise such events, as it has significantly boosted our businesses.
“Not only have we been overwhelmed by the influx of customers, but we’ve also had the opportunity to strike deals with some delegates who visited our food outlet, promising to hire us for their own catering needs,” she said.
A taxi driver Jacob Sibanda said the conference has been a real boon for the transportation industry in Bulawayo.
“As a taxi driver, I’ve been incredibly busy during the conference. The influx of delegates and visitors has significantly increased the demand for taxi services, and I’ve been working long hours to keep up. It’s been a great opportunity to earn extra income and contribute to the local economy,” said Sibanda.
To cater to the influx of delegates, some entertainment joints have organised live band sessions to provide a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for visitors.
These sessions offer a unique opportunity for delegates to relax, socialize, and experience the local music scene while enjoying delicious food and drinks. The live band performances also create a festive ambience that adds to the overall appeal of
Bulawayo as a conference destination.
The fun and entertainment will continue at Habane Stadium in Esigodini, Matabeleland South Province, on Friday night, where an Anti-Sanctions musical concert will be held.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services under the theme: “Embracing Innovation Towards Vision 2030: The Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions” is intended to unite Zimbabweans in their opposition to sanctions through a celebration of music and dance.
Headlining the event is a star-studded lineup of artists, including Jah Master, Sandra Ndebele, Chief Hwenje, DJ Fantan, Iyasa, Godolude, Jays Marabini, Clement Magwaza, Sasha Madube, Manine, Mzoe 7, Madlela Skhobokhobo, Simon Mutambi, Jah Signal, Mbare Chimurenga, Mark Ngwazi, and many more.
Admission to the concert will be free, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to attend.
derick.khumalo