Londile Moyo
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
MATABELELAND South Province is shifting focus towards processing of raw materials as part of efforts to upscale economic development in line with the National Development Strategy 2.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe said as the nation has transitioned into the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2) 2026-2030 there is also need for the province to put in place new development strategies.
“For decades, Matabeleland South has been described as a province of “immense potential.” We talk about our gold under the soil, our vast livestock herds, and our strategic position as the gateway to the SADC region. But potential is a dormant word. Potential cannot pay salaries, cannot usher development and cannot improve livelihoods.
“You cannot build schools, clinics, roads, and hospitals with potential. In 2026, our mandate is to transform that potential into productive output. We are shifting from being a province that has resources to a province that processes them,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe said as the province moves from potential to productivity, there is need to understand the policy environment and harness the policy shifts that are set to immensely improve the provincial economy.
He said under mining there is need for establishment of centers of excellence. Minister Nguluvhe said production must move from small-scale mining” to small-scale industrialisation.
“Agriculture is also one of our key economic growth drivers. Matabeleland South is the ranching capital of Zimbabwe. However, productivity is measured by the value per head, not just the number of cattle. The current budget focuses on climate-proofing through resource allocation towards dam construction and the presidential solarisation programme.
“We must invest in climate-smart fodder production and move toward local canning and leather processing. Let’s turn our dry province into a year-round feeding lot,” he said.
@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter