Vuyisile Mlilo, Sundays News Reporter
THE Bulawayo Business Network will soon launch a book meant to unravel the business potential the City of Kings in New York, with the book set to act as a guide to anyone wishing to invest in Zimbabwe’s second capital.
The book- Vibes and Ventures: A Guide on Doing Business and Investing in Bulawayo- not only takes a dive into the city’s cultural and historical significance but also provides practical insights, strategies, and tips for success in Bulawayo’s unique business landscape.
In the foreword Zanu-PF Secretary-General, Dr Obert Mpofu describes the book as a comprehensive guide that serves as an invaluable resource for international investors, showcasing the enormous potential and remarkable transformation of the city under the leadership of President Mnangagwa’s Second Republic.

“Authored by experts from the Bulawayo Business Network who possess an intimate understanding of this city’s dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit, “Vibes and Ventures” offers a comprehensive toolkit for both budding entrepreneurs and seasoned business professionals. From understanding the intricacies of local market trends to navigating bureaucratic processes and establishing beneficial partnerships, this book provides a roadmap for success in Bulawayo.
“What sets Bulawayo apart is not only its rich business potential but also the sense of community that thrives within its streets. Compassion, collaboration, and a collective determination to uplift the city are at the heart of its success stories. You will find inspiring tales of local businesses transforming lives, embracing innovation, and propelling themselves to international recognition,” wrote Dr Mpofu.
Commenting on the book, the director of Bulawayo Business Network, Mr Nicholas Ncube said the book explores the various opportunities that exist in both Bulawayo and the Matabeleland Region as a whole.
“In terms of ventures the book goes into the opportunities that exist in Bulawayo such as technology and renewable energy, opportunities in the manufacturing sector and how that ties into the vision of the Second Republic.

“It also talks about Bulawayo City Council and the need to engage the council when doing business in Bulawayo and a brief description of regulations to understand of legislation and licenses, it also talks about funding options for those going into business in Bulawayo such as micro lending, banks and investors,” said Mr Ncube.
He revealed that the target market for the book is the international audience and investors, with the book set to be launched in New York.
“We want to sell Bulawayo as the destination across the globe, yes the book is about Bulawayo but it’s written with the international investor in mind. We are saying to those tired of Silicon Valley that; look, you can build you own Silicon Valley in Bulawayo.
“If you can leverage on the National University of Science and Technology and the School of Mines and build your own version Silicon Valley in Southern Africa,” said Mr Ncube.
The book highlights the Second Republic’s commitment to infrastructure development projects and policies designed to make Zimbabwe, particularly Bulawayo, open for business.
Some of its chapters include; Exploring the Breathtaking Business Realm of Bulawayo, Navigating Regulations and Legal Frameworks for Businesses Operating in Bulawayo and Market Analysis and Opportunities in Bulawayo.




