Chronicle Editor
Vusumuzi Dube, Online News Editor
BULAWAYO, once the industrial heart of Zimbabwe, is undergoing a remarkable transformation as the city embarks on a renewed re-industrialisation drive.
With a surge in investor interest and the initiation of multi-million dollar projects, Bulawayo is poised to reclaim its status as a key player in the nation’s economic landscape.
The city, which was once home to a thriving textile, steel, and food processing industry, had seen a significant decline in industrial activity over the past two decades due to economic challenges and lack of investment.
However, with the advent of the new dispensation in 2017, the Government has made re-industrialisation a top priority, and Bulawayo has been at the forefront of this drive.
One of the key initiatives has been the establishment of the Bulawayo Industrial Development Zone, which aims at attracting foreign investment and promote the growth of local industries.
The Bulawayo City Council is at the forefront of this revitalisation, spearheading 16 major capital projects that span various sectors, including transport, education, industry, and commerce.
The city is also witnessing a notable increase in investment activity, with the local authority processing 328 building plans in June 2024.
Among these, 230 plans valued at US$6,5 million received approval, reflecting a remarkable 32,95 percent rise in approved plans compared to May.
However, 98 plans were returned for corrections, indicating a continued focus on compliance and quality in construction.
This influx of investment is not only revitalising the local economy but also creating jobs and enhancing the city’s infrastructure.
According to the latest council report, of the plans that were submitted, three were for industrial stands valued at US$219 000 and 20 were commercial, valued at US$1,9 million.
“A total of 328 building plans had been processed in the month of June. Of these, 230 building plans with a value of US$6,5 million were approved while 98 were referred back for corrections. There was an increase of 32,5 percent on approved plans compared to the total approved in May 2024.
“A total of 1 620 inspections were carried out in June 2024. From these inspections, 26 dilapidated buildings were revisited and 40 advertising signs were captured and accordingly processed. A possible total of US$14 209 was raised from building inspections, advertising signs and other section activities,” reads the report.
This surge in building activity not only highlights the growing investor confidence in Bulawayo but also underscores the council’s commitment to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and addressing issues related to unsafe and unsightly buildings.
According to the council report, the local authority also granted 260 development permits for various entities in the city, ranging from lodges, school facilities to industrial parks.
As part of the city’s re-industrialisation drive, the Government has also partnered with the private sector to establish a number of incubation hubs and innovation centres, which provide support to start-ups and entrepreneurs in areas such as technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
Online Reporter