Tap into Matabeleland South’s vast potential, investors urged

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]

INVESTORS from Arab and African countries have been encouraged to capitalise on the business-friendly environment created by the Government in Matabeleland South province.

The province, rich in natural resources and strategic economic opportunities, offers lucrative investment prospects across various sectors.

Speaking at the 27th Arab-African Investment Co-operation Summit held in Aswan, Egypt, Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, declared the province’s commitment to fostering investment, entrepreneurship and economic growth.

She noted the province provides an attractive package of incentives aimed at attracting and retaining investors. Dr Ndlovu outlined the province’s competitive advantages, emphasising its robust agro-based value chains.

“The province has significant potential in agro-industries, particularly in goat meat (mutton), beef, milk and leather production. We also see opportunities for manufacturing finished leather goods, footwear and other leather products,” she said.

The province is endowed with vast mineral deposits, including gold, lithium, limestone, diamonds, platinum, nickel, copper and coal, creating immense opportunities for mining and mineral processing ventures.

Dr Ndlovu said Matabeleland South is a treasure trove of natural resources. She said by investing in their extraction and processing, businesses can unlock substantial returns while contributing to the province’s economic development

“Matabeleland South boasts of a rich cultural heritage and diverse economic opportunities. The province is committed to creating a conducive environment for investment, entrepreneurship and growth.”

Positioned as a gateway to African markets, Matabeleland South boasts the Beitbridge Border Post, one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s busiest trade corridors. This makes the province an ideal location for investments in logistics, warehousing and trade facilitation.

Dr Ndlovu said there is immense potential for infrastructure development.

“We also have investment opportunities in infrastructure development. Investment in road construction and maintenance can enhance trade and mobility. Revitalising and expanding the rail network can significantly boost the transportation of goods and services,” she said.

“Strategic border posts like Beitbridge can be utilised by investing in the development of logistics hubs and warehousing facilities. These can support the efficient movement of goods and reduce transit times.”

Dr Ndlovu said improving roads, expanding rail networks and developing logistics hubs will enhance trade and mobility, while constructing an international airport and dry port in Beitbridge can revolutionise cargo handling and boost tourism.

The province’s favourable climate also makes it ideal for renewable energy projects. Dr Ndlovu pointed to opportunities in solar and wind energy, as well as bio-energy initiatives utilising agricultural and organic waste to produce electricity.

Dr Ndlovu said the province also has huge potential in fruit production and fruit juice processing with 5 000ha already under production in Beitbridge.

Matabeleland South is poised for growth through its Special Economic Zone (SEZ) status, particularly in Beitbridge.

Companies operating in these zones can benefit from incentives such as exemption from customs duty on capital equipment, zero-rated corporate income tax for the first five years of operation, followed by a reduced 15 percent rate,and exemptions from non-resident taxes on services unavailable locally.

“Matabeleland South Province offers unparalleled investment opportunities and is open for business. I therefore invite you to explore our province, discover its potential and partner with us for mutual growth and prosperity,” said Dr Ndlovu.

The minister said tourism in the province presents another growth area, with attractions such as Matobo National Park, Lumene Falls and cultural heritage sites like Luswingo, Nalatale and Dlodlo ruins.

“The province is a hidden gem for tourists, offering breath-taking natural and cultural attractions,” she said, adding that investment opportunities exist in developing high-rise student accommodation and housing for teachers and lecturers to meet growing educational demands. — @DubeMatutu