Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke-Municipal Correspondent
HARARE has unveiled US$4,29 billion investment drive targeting key infrastructure, healthcare, water, sanitation, transport and industrial redevelopment projects as the city positions itself to host the 2029 Intra-African Trade Fair.
The investment programme, expected to be largely driven through private sector partnerships, forms part of the capital’s broader strategy to transform itself into a modern, world-class city by 2030.
Preparations for the continental trade and investment showcase are already gathering momentum, with Harare set to host the permanent secretariat of the prestigious event.
Acting Harare Town Clerk Advocate Warren Chiwawa said the city was inviting local and international investors to participate in its transformation agenda.
“We are calling on our investors to come and invest in the City of Harare in areas such as healthcare infrastructure, roads, water and sanitation and industrial redevelopment,” said Advocate 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.”
The US$4,29 billion investment portfolio comprises priority projects aimed at modernising Harare’s infrastructure ahead of the 2029 Intra-African Trade Fair, which is expected to attract thousands of exhibitors, delegates and business leaders from across Africa and beyond.
Adv Chiwawa described the trade fair as a unique opportunity to fast-track development and position Harare as a regional commercial hub.
“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.
Adv Chiwawa said the city’s transformation agenda would depend heavily on partnerships between the local authority and the private sector.
Harare mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume said the city had already begun engaging businesses and investors to ensure adequate preparations 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,” he said.
Clr Mafume said increased investment in infrastructure and public services would help narrow the gap between Harare and other leading cities across the world, while enhancing the capital’s competitiveness as an investment destination.
Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency chief executive officer Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo said efficient systems, transparency and modern infrastructure would be critical in attracting sustainable investment.
