Kwekwe emerges as major beneficiary of private sector-led investment drive

Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]

THE Second Republic’s drive to modernise infrastructure is continuing to gather pace, with the City of Kwekwe emerging as a major beneficiary of private sector-led investment under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).

The transformation of Kwekwe forms part of a wider national development blueprint, with the Government rolling out infrastructure projects across all provinces to bridge the urban–rural divide and guide the country towards Vision 2030.

The projects are expected to improve service delivery, attract investment and create employment for locals.

Last weekend, the Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Cde Owen Ncube, commissioned a US$800 000 Greens Shopping Mall in Mbizo 4 suburb.

The development is expected to transform the retail landscape of the mining town while advancing the national modernisation agenda.

The facility, developed by a local investor, is expected to generate hundreds of direct and indirect jobs while stimulating business activity in the Midlands Province, in line with Vision 2030 targets.

“I am pleased to address you on this momentous occasion of the official opening of the modern and indigenous owned US$800 000 Mbizo 4 Greens Shopping Mall here in Kwekwe, the City of Gold,” he said.

Minister Ncube said the event underscores the Second Republic’s development mantra: “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo” and showcases the Second Republic’s commitment to creating a favourable climate that propels private sector-driven investment, infrastructure development, digitalisation, technology transfer and job creation as the country moves towards the attainment of Vision 2030.

“You may be aware that under the TSP and NDS1, which stabilised the macro-fiscal environment resulting in a single-digit inflation, the country witnessed massive housing, road, airport, border posts and power generation infrastructure development. During the period the Midlands Province rolled out more than 10 000 tangible signature projects and programmes which are now being accelerated under NDS2,” Minister Ncube.

He said the opening of the mall therefore resonated with the NDS2 Infrastructure Development and Housing pillar’s framework for sustainable and climate-resilient urban planning.

Minister Ncube commended Greens Shopping Mall Director, Mr Bryn Tom, for diversifying from mining to real estate thereby contributing to the growth of the Midlands Provincial GDP anchored on mining, agriculture, manufacturing, construction, tourism and retail business.

“I am reliably advised that this facility, which employed 150 workers and contracted seven local companies during its construction phase, provides workspaces for 67 small to medium enterprises as well as a 60-seater conference facility,” said Minister Ncube.

He noted that the workspace designs support a mix of retail and service businesses such as salons, boutiques, electrical hardware shops and a gym, among many others.

Minister Ncube said the mall employs 10 people and the figure is expected to jump to over 80 when fully operational.

“Allow me to extend my gratitude to the private sector for complementing the New Dispensation’s beautification, urban renewal and modernisation development trajectory, showcased through adoption of the smart city concept,” he said.

Minister Ncube said following the conclusion of master plans, local authorities must adhere to assigned land uses, uphold President Mnangagwa’s ‘A Call to Action: No Compromise to Service Delivery’ blueprint.

Mr George Saul Makombe, a representative of the investors, said the investment reflects confidence in Zimbabwe’s economy.

“This investment reflects confidence in the country’s economy. We are contributing to infrastructure development, job creation and improved access to quality retail services. It also demonstrates that the economic climate is favourable,” he said.

Residents have welcomed the development, citing improved access to modern services and employment opportunities.

“It is a massive, modern project that brings services closer to the people,” said Mr Abiton Chimombe.

Another resident, Cde Tarisai Mwale, said the development was long overdue.

“We now have access to modern shops and services locally, which also means more employment opportunities,” he said.