Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
Municipal Correspondent
HARARE is positioning itself for a massive wave of local and foreign investment as preparations gather pace for the hosting of the 2029 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), whose permanent secretariat is expected to be established in the capital.
The development is expected to unlock significant opportunities in infrastructure development, and hospitality.
Speaking during an investment engagement meeting attended by business leaders, investors and development partners, Acting Harare Town Clerk Advocate Warren Chiwawa said the city was ready to partner investors willing to participate in key sectors critical to Harare’s growth.
“We are calling on investors to come and invest in the City of Harare in areas such as healthcare infrastructure, roads, water and sanitation and industrial redevelopment,” said Adv Chiwawa.
“There are a lot of business opportunities in Harare. Investors can participate in healthcare, water and sanitation, road networks and sewer infrastructure. It is important for them to come and invest so that we can achieve our vision of becoming a world-class city.”
Adv Chiwawa said preparations for the 2029 Intra-African Trade Fair presented a unique opportunity for investors to participate in projects that would have a lasting impact on the capital’s growth and competitiveness.
“The city is preparing for increased economic activity and international attention. This means we must ensure that our infrastructure is able to support the demands that will come with hosting such a major continental event,” he said.
“We need significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, roads, water supply systems, sanitation facilities and industrial redevelopment. These are not only requirements for hosting international visitors but investments that will improve the quality of life of our residents.”
He said the city’s transformation agenda could not be achieved by local authorities alone.
“The City of Harare is opening its doors to investors because we recognise that partnerships are critical. The opportunities are available and the potential returns are substantial for those willing to invest in the city’s future.”
He said the hosting of the trade fair would create demand for improved public infrastructure and modern service delivery systems.
“We are looking at upgrading road networks, improving sewer and water infrastructure and creating an environment that supports business growth and industrial expansion. These are areas where investors can play a key role.”
He said the city’s vision of becoming a world-class city by 2030 was closely linked to attracting capital into strategic sectors.
“For us to become a world-class city, we need investment that strengthens our infrastructure base. We need investment that creates jobs, stimulates economic growth and improves service delivery.”
“The Intra-African Trade Fair is not simply an event. It is a catalyst for development. It gives Harare an opportunity to accelerate projects that might otherwise take years to implement.”
Zimbabwe is intensifying preparations for hosting the 2029 Intra-African Trade Fair, one of the continent’s largest trade and investment gatherings.
The event is expected to attract thousands of delegates, exhibitors and business leaders from across Africa and beyond.
Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume said the city was already engaging investors to ensure it is adequately prepared for the landmark event.
“This is an important meeting with businesses already operating in Harare, those seeking to expand their operations and those wishing to bring in both local and international investors,” said Mayor Mafume.
“It is very important because we are going to be hosting the International Trade Fair, which requires at least 27 000 rooms at a minimum. That is going to be a huge contribution to our GDP and a huge contribution to the pockets of both local and international investors.”
