Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT-driven investments in industrial revival, housing development, road rehabilitation, healthcare and youth empowerment, among others, are accelerating Bulawayo’s transformation into a modern, productive and inclusive city in line with President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 agenda.
The progress came into sharp focus during a two-day inspection tour led by the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Judith Ncube, who assessed a cross-section of strategic projects aimed at transforming the city into a vibrant industrial and commercial hub.
The high-level tour, which brought together senior Government officials, service chiefs, local authority representatives, Joint Operations Command (JOC) and key stakeholders, formed part of a broader strategy to ensure that projects being implemented under President Mnangagwa’s development vision are delivering tangible benefits to communities while creating employment and stimulating economic growth.
On Tuesday, the delegation visited several strategic projects, including Carousel Manufacturing, the Munhumutapa National Youth Housing Programme at Valindre Stands, Matopos Road rehabilitation works, Profeeds and major road reconstruction projects at the intersection of Third Avenue and Lobengula Street.
Addressing stakeholders, Minister Ncube said the Government was determined to ensure that all development projects contribute meaningfully towards the attainment of Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy, which prioritises infrastructure development, industrialisation, job creation and improved living standards.
“We’re here to appreciate the progress that has been made, assess the challenges that may be affecting implementation and identify areas where Government intervention may be required,” she said. “President Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised the need for inclusive development that leaves no one and no place behind, and these projects are a reflection of that vision.”
The tour commenced at Carousel Manufacturing, a division of Edgars Stores Limited, where officials witnessed remarkable growth following interventions directed by President Mnangagwa during his visit to the city last year.
The company, once grappling with operational challenges, has recorded increased production volumes and improved capacity utilisation following Government support and engagement with key stakeholders.
“The growth we are seeing here is testimony that when Government and industry work together, positive results can be achieved. Increased production means more jobs, more economic activity and improved livelihoods for our people,” she said.
From Carousel, the delegation proceeded to Valindre Stands to assess progress on the Munhumutapa National Youth Housing Programme, a nationwide initiative launched by President Mnangagwa to provide affordable residential stands and housing opportunities to young Zimbabweans.
The project, being implemented through a Public-Private Partnership arrangement and contracted to Enoch Construction, seeks to empower youth through access to land and decent housing while fostering economic participation.
Officials were briefed on construction progress and future development plans for the area. Minister Ncube expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and commended the collaborative approach adopted by Government and private sector partners.
“This is exactly the kind of initiative we want to see. Housing remains one of the major challenges facing urban centres, including Bulawayo. Projects such as these will go a long way in assisting the local authority to address the housing backlog while simultaneously empowering young people,” she said.
Minister Ncube noted that the project was in line with President Mnangagwa’s people-centred development philosophy, which seeks to improve the welfare of citizens through sustainable housing solutions.
The delegation later visited Matopos Road, one of Bulawayo’s key arterial roads currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Council officials indicated that the project was on course for completion by Friday (today), a development welcomed by residents and businesses that rely heavily on the route.
Minister Ncube said improved road infrastructure was critical for economic growth, efficient transport systems and investment attraction.
The tour then moved to Profeeds, where officials assessed a major private sector investment that has seen approximately US$12 million being channelled into infrastructure development and production facilities in Bulawayo.
The investment has not only strengthened the city’s industrial base but has also created employment opportunities for hundreds of people.
Minister Ncube praised the company’s commitment to investing in Bulawayo at a time when Government is aggressively pursuing industrialisation and private sector-led growth.
“Such investments are critical for economic development. They create jobs, enhance production and contribute to national growth. We commend investors who continue to demonstrate confidence in Bulawayo and Zimbabwe’s economy,” she said.
The final stop of the day was at the intersection of Third Avenue and Lobengula Street, where extensive road rehabilitation works have been underway for several months.
The project forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the city’s road network and address infrastructure deterioration caused by years of wear and limited financial resources.
While applauding Bulawayo City Council for undertaking the works despite operating under significant budgetary constraints, Minister Ncube urged the local authority to carefully prioritise projects to ensure resources are effectively managed.
She added that Government remained committed to supporting local authorities in delivering quality infrastructure and services to residents.
On day two (Wednesday), the tour covered visits to health institutions, mining ventures, industrial facilities, and economic empowerment projects, including Cure Children’s Hospital, Mpilo Central Hospital, TICOZ, Ngozi Mine, and selected vending sites.
In her remarks, Minister Ncube said that under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, several projects have been rolled out across the country as part of efforts to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030, with investment attraction, job creation, and improved service delivery remaining central pillars of the national vision.
