Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
BULAWAYO is positioning itself to reclaim its status as Zimbabwe’s industrial heartland, with Government and business leaders challenged to turn the city’s vast potential into tangible investment.
Delivering welcoming remarks on Thursday during the second day of the Bulawayo Investment Indaba 2026, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube said the indaba’s theme, “Unlocking Strategic Investment Opportunities for Sustainable Industrial Transformation,” was timely for a province with deep manufacturing roots.
“Ladies and gentlemen, our theme could not have come at a more appropriate time if we think that there is great potential within our province and we want to create a platform where that potential can be seen, discussed and most importantly, translated into investment,” said Minister Ncube.
“Bulawayo is a profound industrial district. Our city was once widely known as the industrial hub of Zimbabwe and the famous expression, KoNtuthu Ziyathunqa, speaks to that rich industrial heritage. Today, we are looking towards the future.”
Minister Ncube outlined opportunities across multiple sectors, saying they were ready for capital injection and partnerships.
These include manufacturing, mining and mineral beneficiation, agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, infrastructure, housing, engineering, education, health and renewable energy.
The indaba, she said, was designed to bring together Government, the private sector, investors, entrepreneurs and the wider business community for open and constructive conversations on what Bulawayo means and the opportunities the city can offer.
She noted with appreciation the strong representation of women, men and young people at the forum.
“We believe that economic development is a collective responsibility and everyone that has a role can play in building a stronger and more prosperous Bulawayo,” said Minister Ncube.
As the host province, Minister Ncube said her office’s role was to welcome delegates and create space for meaningful engagement.
“We want you to feel at home in Bulawayo. We want you to explore our city, engage with our institutions and business community, identify opportunities and hopefully leave here having established relationships that can develop into successful investments,” she said.
Minister Ncube tied the provincial investment drive to national goals, saying Bulawayo was aligned with the country’s Vision 2030.
“We embrace the national vision of transforming Zimbabwe into an economic society by 2030. Bulawayo is ready to play its part. Bulawayo is open for business, open for partnerships and open for investments,” she said.
Day two of the Bulawayo Investment Indaba 2026 continues with the official opening by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, and business-to-business engagements aimed at matching investors with projects in the city and surrounding districts.
Bongani Ndlovu