Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo and Patience Ndlovu
DISCUSSIONS on infrastructure development took centre stage at the Matabeleland North Investment Conference in Umguza District last week, amid calls for increased focus on road construction, residential accommodation, sports facilities and promoting investment in key sectors.
The two-day conference, which ended on Friday, brought together representatives from Government ministries and departments, potential investors and investors interested in Matabeleland North.
The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) was among the participants and clarified issues related to the disbursement of funds for road rehabilitation and construction.
The Infrastructure and Development Bank of Zimbabwe presented on the need to invest in key infrastructure, which drives investment growth.
In an interview, Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo said infrastructure was key in attracting investment, with accommodation, schools and vocational training centres (VTCs) among priority areas.
VTCs, he said, would allow skills transfer and benefit locals and the nation, adding that the Government could not do everything, hence the need for collaboration and partnerships with private sector players.
“Investment opportunities are vast in Matabeleland North, with construction in schools, roads, conference centers, and vocational training centers to allow youths to learn different life skills,” said Minister Moyo.
“Zimparks also offers opportunities so people can come and put lodges, conference centers, and tents inside the parks. We were targeting about 180 delegates, but the conference has been oversubscribed and we are around 380, with people still coming and others saying they are coming tomorrow.”
On accommodation, Minister Moyo said all districts in the province needed housing facilities for individuals and civil servants.
Bongani Ndlovu