Chronicle Editor
Nqobile Bhebhe in Beitbridge
Communities in Beitbridge District are poised to reap significant benefits from the US$3,6 billion Palm River Energy Metallurgical Industrial Park, which has already created numerous business and employment opportunities for locals.
Located 20km west of Beitbridge, the energy industrial park has since absorbed scores of previously unemployed locals with more jobs expected as the project expands in phases.
With close to 1 000 workers on site, mainly locals, the multi-sectorial Special Economic Zone is a game-changer for the district and the entire Matabeleland South Province.
Together with the greater wildlife and tourism economy as well as citrus production, the new investment will further enhance Beitbridge’s role as a key economic hub in Zimbabwe, along the Zimbabwe-South Africa border.
President Mnangagwa visited the investment site yesterday where infrastructure improvements such as better roads and utilities will be built to enhance trade and economic collaboration between Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries.
Beyond industrial development, the project is making an immediate impact on local communities through the development of social amenities such as drilling of boreholes to provide clean water.
Plans are also underway to establish a clinic and a recreational park, further improving social infrastructure in the district with more support systems for the education sector.
“This is a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to ensuring no place is left behind. Employment chances have been enhanced for the community, especially the youth,” Mr Samuel Tlou, a local community representative said.
“We urge the Government and private sector to set up technical colleges to train the youth in mining activities.”
Additionally, the project is set to offer technical training to Zimbabwean workers mostly drawn from the province equipping them with industry-relevant skills through hands-on experience and technology transfer.
Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, highlighted the transformative potential of the mega project, and emphasised its expected contribution to the national economy.
Through such projects, she said the province will not be left behind in Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
She said the initiative is also set to impact positively on the education sector, which is expected to benefit from the US$500 000 scholarship fund that will sponsor Zimbabwean youth to study in China.
Additionally, plans are in place to establish a Metallurgical Centre of Excellence, focusing on value addition and beneficiation.
“We firmly believe that a strong youth leads to a strong nation. To support this vision, the Palm River Special Economic Zone has committed US$500 000 to establish the Palm River Education Fund.
Over the next 10 years, we will annually select five to 10 outstanding students from the Beitbridge region to receive scholarships,” said Xinganglian Metallurgy Company chairman, Mr Zhou Xudong.
With its vast scope, the Palm River Energy Metallurgical Special Economic Zone is poised to redefine Beitbridge’s economic landscape, unlocking opportunities for employment, infrastructure development, and skills enhancement across the province.
Online Reporter