Matabeleland North increases GDP contribution

MATABELELAND North Province has recorded a significant jump in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which now stands at about US$2,3 billion in response to growing economic activities.

The increase, according to Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Richard Moyo, accounts for about 5.8 percent of the country’s GDP, marking a notable increase compared to previous years.

He revealed this yesterday during a Provincial Development Committee (PDC) meeting held at the Mhlahlandlela Government Complex in Bulawayo.

In his address, Minister Moyo said the main targets for the year must be centred on attaining an improved GDP, as well as reducing the unemployment rate in the province.

“Let’s continue to uphold our mandate and cultivate the spirit of patriotism amongst ourselves and our juniors. Together, we can effectively realise the expansion of infrastructure and our provincial economy,” he said.

“We are already blessed as a province to house flagship projects such as the Hwange Thermal Power Station Units 1-6, which is set to further increase electricity production and support both local and national industrial growth.”

Minister Moyo said the said the Lupane Provincial Hospital, upon completion, would provide improved healthcare services in the province.

He also spoke about the progress at the Lake Gwayi-Tshangani project, which should improve water security in Matabeleland North and help facilitate irrigation schemes for agricultural development.

“As directed by His Excellency President Mnangagwa, this will see us contributing to the national vision to achieve an upper-middle-income economy by 2030,” Moyo said.

“We must all put in endless efforts and devote ourselves fully to fulfilling the constitution’s mandate responsively and inclusively if we are to realise Vision 2030. Community-driven expectations and national goals should be taken into account at all times.”

The minister said accelerating ongoing projects is necessary because of the need to relocate all provincial departments from Bulawayo to the Matabeleland North provincial capital, Lupane.

“Our departments should be instilled with a culture of honesty and diligence at every level. We must work together to implement bold policies that will yield meaningful results,” he said.