malvernmugadzikwa
Sunday Mail Correspondent
ZIMBABWE is keen to adopt cutting-edge technologies from Russia in the construction sector as part of its efforts to make the industry a key driver towards the attainment of Vision 2030, a Cabinet minister has said.
Last week, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe led a delegation of construction experts to the XI International Construction Forum and 100+ TechnoBuild Exhibition, held at the Yekaterinburg-Expo International Exhibition Centre in Russia.
The forum provided an opportunity for Zimbabwe to tap into advanced technologies to facilitate development of the local construction sector.
Minister Garwe also took part in the first session of the International Conference on Technical Regulation in Construction.
The 100+ TechnoBuild Forum is one of Russia’s largest engineering and construction congresses, showcasing the latest advancements in construction technology and modern urban development projects.
Speaking at the event, Minister Garwe expressed optimism about the future of Zimbabwe’s construction sector, emphasising the importance of adopting smart, sustainable technologies to improve efficiency.
“Zimbabwe’s construction projects will transform the country and contribute to economic growth, social development and environmental sustainability,” he said.
“By embracing climate-smart technologies and aligning with key frameworks, Zimbabwe will become a model for sustainable construction in Africa.”
He highlighted the Government’s efforts to create a conducive environment for private investment in the sector.
“The Government is prioritising infrastructure and building development to create an enabling environment for investment and promote sustainable practices,” he said.
Minister Garwe invited the private sector to partner with the Government to deliver high-quality projects that will benefit the people and contribute to long-term development.
He encouraged citizens to actively participate in these projects to ensure inclusivity, sustainability and alignment with community needs.
He said 80 percent of the anticipated construction would take place in
urban areas, which would necessitate significant investment in servicing land.
“This growth will also require serviced land, an area that requires huge capital outlay,” he said.
“Since land is a finite resource, adoption and intensification of densification models is the way to go.
“This scenario calls for a robust spatial planning regime that takes all these critical aspects into consideration.”
During the week-long event, Minister Garwe toured sites with modern construction equipment used in Russia to gain an insight into the latest technologies in the sector.
He met with the Governor of Sverdlovsk Region, Mr Kozlov Vasilii, and the Deputy Minister of International and Foreign Economic Relations of the Sverdlovsk region, Ms Liudmila Berg, to discuss potential collaborations in construction technology.
Online Reporter