Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo. Sunday News Reporter
THE City of Bulawayo has shrugged off competition from peers across the country to scoop the “Best Exhibiting Local Authority” at the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, which was officially opened by Botswana’s President, Advocate Duma Boko on Thursday.
City Mayor, Councillor David Coltart and Town Clerk Mr Christopher Dube received the City’s shield accolade from President Boko during the awards presentation.
This year, Bulawayo exhibited under the theme: “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries for a Smart and Sustainable Bulawayo” which aligned with the expo theme.
In a shift from tradition, the city showcased its initiatives in hall three instead of its usual pavilion.
The exhibition highlighted Bulawayo’s contribution to connected economies and competitive industries across four thematic areas: physical, institutional, digital and economic development through market connections.
“We’re so excited to be recognised at the ZITF show. This means a lot for the city of Bulawayo and the residents, it gives, especially the residents and management a sense of pride,” said the city’s economic development officer, Mr Kholisani Moyo.
“This also gives confidence to potential investors who want to come and invest. When you’re now recognised as the best, it gives confidence that this partner is not a weak partner, but it’s a partner who can also compete and win.”
Mr Moyo said BCC leaves this year’s ZITF more confident, better recognised and visible on the international stage.
“There’s a country called Zimbabwe and there’s a city called Bulawayo, which has managed to put up a good stand and the storyline,” he said.
“So, it also motivates not only the staff that was involved but everyone who works for the council, it boosts morale to be recognised and to see your Mayor, your Town Clerk running to collect the award. Really, we are so excited for Bulawayo, we’re happy as Bulawayo.”
As part of its focus on city-to-city co-operation, Bulawayo jointly exhibited with South Africa’s Polokwane Municipality to demonstrate how connected cities can drive connected economies.
The award recognises Bulawayo’s efforts to position itself as a smart, sustainable hub for trade, industry and regional integration.
This year, the City of Bulawayo’s winning strategy was on the theme and storyline, where it is positioning itself as a digitally connected hub driving smart, sustainable growth.
Bulawayo also exhibited a storyline explaining how the city is connecting through people and services, emergency response, arts/culture/fashion and academic partnerships with other cities like Durban and Venda.
Other initiatives exhibited by the city included global industrial competitiveness through multi-sectoral connectivity that is digital connectivity, institutional connectivity, physical connectivity and economic development and market connectivity.
