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As the ruling ZANU-PF party prepares to hold its annual conference in Bulawayo, local entertainment stakeholders are gearing up for a potential windfall.
The conference, scheduled to take place from October 22-27, is expected to attract thousands of delegates from across the country, providing a welcome boost to the city’s entertainment scene.
“Events of this magnitude always have a positive impact on our industry,” said Omega Sibanda, former Member of Parliament for Vungu Constituency who owns Archers Sports Club in the city.
“We’re anticipating increased walk-in and drive-in traffic, which translates to more business for us.”
Local musicians, DJs, and performers are also eagerly anticipating the conference, seeing it as an opportunity to showcase their talents to a wider audience.
“The conference will bring people from all over Zimbabwe to Bulawayo, and we’re excited to share our city’s vibrant entertainment scene with them,” said DJ Joe Tha OG, a veteran of Bulawayo’s music scene.
“We’re preparing special performances and events to make this conference unforgettable.”
Tha OG’s sentiments where echoed by popular DJ Mzoe who plays at the hugely popular Pub n Grill which is commonly known as ‘koSamuriwo’ at Chigumira Shopping Center in Old Luveve.
“For us DJs as well as the sports we perform at will surely benefit from this big event in Bulawayo. The entertainment sub-ecomomy needs such big events to roll into town and bring us more customers,” said DJ Mzoe.
Hotels, restaurants, and bars are also expected to benefit from the influx of visitors.
“We’re already experiencing increased bookings, and we’re confident that our hospitality industry will shine during the conference,” said Byron Rice, owner of Harris Lodges.
The conference is also expected to provide a platform for local artists to network and collaborate with visiting musicians and industry professionals.
“This is a chance for our creatives to connect with influencers and decision-makers, potentially opening doors for future opportunities,” said Archie Chiponda, ZANU-PF (Bulawayo Province) Information Secretary.
While some have raised concerns about potential disruptions to city life, most residents are embracing the conference as a welcome economic injection.
“We’re ready to show our hospitality and make this conference a success,” said Nketa Constituency Member of Parliament, Hon Albert Mavhunga who also sits on the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee for Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
We’re confident that our city’s entertainment and arts scene will leave a lasting impression on our visitors.”
Online Reporter