Sakubva’s second chance: Why urban renewal investment matters

 

THE Sakubva Urban Renewal Project has been on the cards for a number of years following its historical launch by President Mnangagwa in December 2019.

 

The project is an initiative to modernise the old and run-down Sakubva high-density suburb, and turn Mutare into a Smart City in line with Government’s Vision 2030.

 

Sakubva Urban Renewal Project will see the construction of high rise flats, revamping of Sakubva Flea Market, Sakubva Long-distance Bus Terminus, Sakubva Stadium, Sakubva Beit Hall and Murahwa People’s Green Market.

 

Various hurdles in rolling out the project were encountered along the way, but a ray of hope filtered last year, following the coming together of Government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, and Mutare City Council, together with National Social Security Authority (NSSA), as implementing partners to spearheaded the formation of a private company working towards the actual construction works.

 

We applaud the progress that is being made in ensuring that this investment becomes a reality.

 

Investing in the Sakubva Urban Renewal Project is a crucial step towards revitalising the area and unlocking its vast potential.

 

By transforming the physical landscape and improving infrastructure, this initiative can breathe new life into the community, making it more attractive to residents, businesses, and investors alike.

 

A key aspect of this renewal effort should be promoting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

 

SMEs are the backbone of any thriving economy, and their growth can have a significant impact on the local community. By providing support and resources to SMEs, the urban renewal project can help foster a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

 

When SMEs receive the support and resources they need, they are better equipped to innovate, take risks, and push boundaries. This, in turn, can lead to the development of new products, services, and processes that can drive economic growth and create new opportunities.

 

Moreover, SMEs that receive support are more likely to attract and retain talented employees, creating jobs and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

 

One of the key ways that support and resources can benefit SMEs is by providing access to funding and capital.

 

Many SMEs struggle to secure the funding they need to grow and expand, and this can limit their ability to innovate and create jobs. By providing access to funding options, such as loans, grants, and venture capital, SMEs can secure the resources they need to take their businesses to the next level.

 

In addition to funding, SMEs also benefit from access to training and development programmes.

 

These programmes can help entrepreneurs and small business owners develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, from financial management and marketing to leadership and strategy.

 

By providing access to these resources, SMEs can build their capacity and increase their chances of success.

 

Furthermore, support and resources can also help SMEs navigate complex regulatory environments and access new markets. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses that may not have the resources or expertise to navigate these challenges on their own.

 

By providing support and resources, Government and other organisations can help level the playing field and create opportunities for SMEs to compete and thrive.

 

The impact of supporting SMEs can be felt far beyond the individual businesses themselves. When SMEs thrive, they can contribute to the overall economic growth and development of the community.

 

They can create jobs, stimulate innovation, and increase economic activity, all of which can have a positive impact on the local economy.

 

Providing support and resources to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) is a crucial step in fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth.

 

SMEs are the backbone of many economies, and their growth and development can have a significant impact on the overall economic landscape, hence all development oriented people should throw their weight behind this noble project.