Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Hub
IN its quest to promote economic development in Zimbabwe’s second largest city, the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) will next month take its investment campaign to Harare, targeting potential investors in the diaspora and across the country.
Dubbed Khumbul’ekhaya (Remember back home) Investment Conference (KIC), slated for July 30, aims to bring together Bulawayo entrepreneurs who have relocated to Harare, along with new potential investors, policymakers, and other key stakeholders.
Bulawayo, historically the country’s industrial hub, has over the years faced several economic challenges, leading to a migration of talent and capital to Harare and other parts of the country.
In a concept note, BCC said the conference sought to reconnect business people from Bulawayo now based in Harare with their roots, explore investment opportunities, and address challenges that hinder economic growth in Bulawayo.
This conference aims to be a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and promoting investment opportunities in key sectors that could revitalise Bulawayo’s economy.
“The decision to hold the conference in Harare is a strategic one, as it provides an ideal opportunity to reconnect with the substantial community of Bulawayo-born professionals and entrepreneurs who now reside and work in the capital,” reads the concept note.
“Many of these individuals have lost touch with the opportunities back home, making this conference a vital catalyst for reigniting their connections to Bulawayo’s economic revival.
“We envision this event as a starting point, not just a standalone occasion. Plans are already underway for future editions to be hosted in Bulawayo, as well as in other key diaspora hubs.”
The city is also exploring potential virtual components to include a broader global audience, making it accessible to those unable to attend in person.
Among other objectives, the conference is meant to showcase sectors such as manufacturing, technology, tourism, agriculture, and other potential investment avenues in Bulawayo.
Further, the indaba also seeks to provide a platform for sharing knowledge on business trends, challenges, and opportunities specific to Bulawayo’s market, with a focus on successful case studies.
The event will also provide a platform to engage policymakers and city officials to discuss issues affecting businesses and the overall economic climate in Bulawayo, and to advocate for policies that support local businesses.
The Khumbul’ekhaya Investment Conference is one of BCC’s events that places a strong emphasis on attracting investment through high-profile conferences and exhibitions.
These events signal Bulawayo’s readiness to facilitate business growth and enhance its reputation as a preferred investment destination.
Promoting investments in Bulawayo will strengthen economic dynamism in the city, attracting external investors while incentivising local entrepreneurs to innovate.
