Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
VICE-President Constantino Chiwenga has challenged delegates at the ongoing International Business Conference (IBC) in Bulawayo to recognise their collective role in shaping a modern, industrialised and globally competitive Zimbabwean economy capable of leading Africa in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
In his keynote address to the oversubscribed engagement, VP Chiwenga said the conference was playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economic discourse and future trajectory.
“As we engage today we must recognize that we are actively shaping the architecture of a modern industrialized and globally competitive Zimbabwe economy to lead Africa in the fourth industrial revolution,” he said.
The Vice-President stressed that the conference brings together Government, business leaders, investors and development partners to craft practical pathways for economic growth and industrial transformation.
He said this year’s theme, “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,” was both timely and strategic as it speaks to the realities of a rapidly evolving global landscape.
“It reflects the realities of a rapidly changing global economy in which competitiveness, innovation, resilience and collaboration have become the key detriments of national success,” said VP Chiwenga.
“Nations that adapt quickly ans build productive industries are poised to steer the fourth industrial revolution.”
VP Chiwenga noted that Zimbabwe is pursuing its industrialisation agenda through deliberate reforms and clear policy direction, anchored on frameworks such as the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
He said the blueprint provides a roadmap for accelerated industrialisation, private sector expansion, infrastructure modernisation and job creation.
Running under the topic “Business, Economic and Policy Opportunities in Zimbabwe’s Structural Transformation Ambition and Agenda,” the conference is generating robust discussions on how the country can leverage regional and global value chains to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
The IBC, hosted by the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company in partnership with the National Economic Consultative Forum (NECF) and the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), has become a central feature of the premier trade showcase.
It provides a strategic platform for dialogue among Government, business leaders, academia and international investors.
This year’s indaba comes at a time when Zimbabwe is seeking to consolidate gains in economic stabilisation while unlocking new growth opportunities through industrial revival, trade integration, technological innovation and access to global financing.
