Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has challenged business leaders to play their part in enhancing investment attractiveness by modernising infrastructure to meet market demands.
He was speaking recently during the official opening of Mvelase Mall in Gwanda, where he reiterated the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for all business players to thrive.
Mvelase Mall has been constructed in the Phakama high-density area. It is solar-powered and houses 18 shops within a double-storey structure. It features clothing shops, restaurants, liquor stores, hair salons and laundry services, among others.
“The mall we’re commissioning today is a shining beacon of entrepreneurship and innovation in our great province. This modern architectural masterpiece is more than just a hub for social and economic activity,” said Nguluvhe.
“It’s a symbol of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn and adapt — an embodiment of a vision for a prosperous and thriving Gwanda.
“This is the kind of business acumen we are promoting under the Second Republic. We want members of the business community who will embrace and respond to the call: ‘Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo / Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.’”
Minister Nguluvhe said the Government envisages a business landscape that competes with and conforms to regional and global standards.
He said the new mall would also ensure that people have better access to various services, while creating employment opportunities.
“The province needs entrepreneurs who are dedicated to making a tangible impact on the local economy after identifying the gaps and needs that exist within the community. Gone are the days when locals waited for external investors to bring the needed change and development to their areas,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He urged the youth and aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from established business moguls who have consistently worked to grow their enterprises.
“I’m delighted to see the impact that local entrepreneurship can have on our communities. Mvelase Mall is a shining example of what can be achieved when we invest in our people and our local economy. To the members of the business community here today — let’s work on meeting market demands. Let’s identify gaps and tap into existing business opportunities. We cannot have people travelling to other towns to access services and products that we can offer right here,” Minister Nguluvhe said.
Gwanda Mayor, Alderman Thulani Moyo, said Mvelase Mall was a significant project aligned with the council’s vision of constructing high-rise buildings for both commercial and residential purposes to maximise land use. He urged businesspeople to ensure they develop the land they acquire in a timely manner.
Mr Clive Dube, the owner of Mvelase Mall, said he recognised the need for more commercial working space.
“If we are developing our town, it doesn’t mean we should focus only on the CBD and neglect business centres in high-density areas. I saw it prudent to establish a state-of-the-art, modern structure in the high-density suburbs as part of my contribution to the town’s development. His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has said: “Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo”— and as the business community, we have a role to play as well,” he said.
— @DubeMatutu
