Chronicle Editor
Andile Tshuma, Business Reporter
CAPTAINS of industry and commerce meet top Government officials in Bulawayo this evening to brainstorm on strategies to revamp the city’s manufacturing sector.
Finance and Economic Development Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, his Industry and Commerce counterpart, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu and his deputy Raji Modi, are expected to conduct a tour of selected city firms this afternoon before meeting industrialists at 6PM.
The event will be held at Hitlink Investments at Corner 23rd Avenue and Bristol Road in Belmont.
The ministers will share notes with business leaders as part of measures to gain an on the ground appreciation and map concrete steps towards transforming the fortunes of companies in Bulawayo.
In an interview, deputy Minister Modi called on industrialists from the city and interested members of the public to attend the special gathering, which comes a day after the end of the three-day Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) congress and international investment indaba.
“I have heard from the organisers that we are almost booked to capacity. I extend my invitation to everyone who feels that they have an idea, no matter how small, to share that and help us revive the industrial giant and return it to its glory days,” he said.
“A powerful programme has been lined up. We may not do it all on the same day but this is definitely a step in the right direction and we will not stop working until results are seen. The solution to industrial problems will not come from Government alone but from all of us. The solution is us.”
Programme coordinator Ms Rejoice Mafukidze said they were expecting a huge turnout at the meeting due to overwhelming bookings and inquiries.
“We are getting so many calls and inquiries we will be fully booked very soon. People are showing so much enthusiasm and are looking forward to the event,” she said.
Ms Mafukidze said idea behind the gathering is for businesses to gather and share ideas on the revival of Bulawayo with the Executive.
“Our target group cuts across all industries. The idea is to discuss possible solutions that can be implemented to make the productive sector in Bulawayo function at full capacity and realise competitive advantage. This platform will be used to chart a way forward,” she said.
“Prof Mthuli Ncube, Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu and Cde Raji Modi have confirmed participation.” — @andile_tshuma
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