Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
THE Bulawayo business community has launched a fundraising campaign to support the Zanu-PF 22nd Annual People’s Conference, scheduled for October in Mutare, Manicaland Province.
The campaign kicked off yesterday with enthusiastic participation from various sectors of the city’s business community. The event featured the auction of the iconic scarf in Zimbabwe flag colours, which fetched US$200. Funds raised will go towards logistical arrangements, infrastructure upgrades and the overall organisation of the conference.
So far, 90 percent of the venue upgrade work has been completed. The conference will run from October 13 to 18 at Mutare Polytechnic, with an estimated 4 000 delegates expected from across the country.
This year’s theme is “The Attainment of Vision 2030 through Economic Empowerment and Value Addition.”
The party aims to raise US$5 million to cover conference expenses. Several provinces have already exceeded their fundraising targets. Midlands has so far raised US$100,000, Mashonaland East US$105,000, Matabeleland South US$100,000, Masvingo US$85,000, Mashonaland West US$70,000 and Mashonaland Central US$60,000. Bulawayo has also secured significant pledges from its business sector.
The fundraiser, held at a city lodge, was graced by Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube. The minister described the conference as a “crucible platform that will shape Zimbabwe’s future.”
“Vision 2030 is a beacon guiding us towards a prosperous, empowered upper-middle-income society. However, a vision, no matter how brilliantly conceived, cannot build itself,” she said.
“It is built by the hands of our farmers, the ingenuity of our engineers, the acumen of our financiers, and the relentless spirit of our business community.”
Minister Ncube emphasised that the partnership between the business sector and the ruling party goes beyond discussion, aiming for practical contributions towards building Vision 2030.
She appealed to stakeholders across the economy to contribute, whether in cash or in kind, describing such support as “a direct investment in the future of our country’s policy direction.”
Zanu-PF Central Committee member and fundraising committee chair, Cde Charles Chiponda, said preparations for the conference are well underway.
“We are proud to play a pivotal role in supporting the 22nd Zanu-PF conference. As members of the business community, we recognise the significance of this event and are keen to contribute towards its success,” he said.
Business owners at the fundraiser emphasised the importance of collective efforts in ensuring a seamless experience for the delegates.
“It is heartening to witness the unity and solidarity within the Bulawayo business community as we rally together to support the forthcoming Zanu-PF conference. Our contributions, both big and small, will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the success of this prestigious gathering,” said Mr Ismael Jasset, a local businessman.
He said the involvement of the Bulawayo business community in the fundraising campaign highlights the spirit of co-operation and friendship underpinning the local commercial landscape.
“Through this initiative, businesses are not only showcasing their financial support but also their unwavering commitment to fostering a conducive environment for national events of importance,” said Mr Jasset.
Bongani Ndlovu