Chronicle Editor
Judith Phiri, Business Reporter
BULAWAYO Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube has said competitiveness is critical for the economic development and growth of Zimbabwe.
In her welcome remarks at the highly subscribed inaugural two-day National Competitiveness Commission (NCC) Competitiveness Summit in Bulawayo at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC), she said the Summit comes at a time the Government was working towards the attainment of NDS1 aspirations critical for economic development.
“The Presidium has found time to grace the event highlighting their unwavering support to the development of the country. The Summit comes at a time when various efforts are being made to ensure the economic growth of the nation to build a prosperous economy.”
The Minister said the event was taking place in Bulawayo in line with NDS1 aspirations of Devolution which were key for the Province’s development and growth agenda.
She said in line with the devolution agenda, it was critical to tap into the natural endowments of the city as Bulawayo has long been the industrial hub of the country and embracing the dynamics of competitiveness in the 21st century was critical.
“We need to identify challenges affecting businesses competitiveness and come up with solutions to create a platform for all relevant stakeholders to agree on interventions. Stakeholders should be able to share practical ideas that will ensure the country remains competitive for a prosperous future and improve the livelihoods of all Zimbabweans,” she added.
Minister Ncube commended the organisers of the Summit and encouraged delegates to sample some of Bulawayo and surrounding tourist sites such as the Matopos National Park, as well as the Hwange National Park and UNESCO heritage sites such as the Victoria Falls.
President Mnangagwa is expected to deliver a keynote address and officially open the Summit.
The Summit is running under the theme: “Building Sustainability Towards Enhanced Productivity and Competitiveness in Zimbabwe.”
The Summit provides a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to shape a more competitive and business-friendly Zimbabwe
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