Bulawayo Courts Global Investors

Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Daniel Garwe, has emphasized the need for collective grassroots efforts and diaspora engagement to unlock Zimbabwe’s development potential and achieve long-term economic growth.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy Minister Hon. A.T. Mavunga at the Khumbulekhaya Investment Conference, hosted by the City of Bulawayo in Harare on Tuesday, Minister Garwe highlighted the crucial role of inclusive development in driving the country toward Vision 2030.

The conference brought together local and international stakeholders, including private investors and members of the Zimbabwean diaspora, in a bid to promote investment, urban renewal, and economic development in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city.

Deputy Minister Hon. A.T. Mavunga at the Khumbulekhaya Investment Conference, hosted by the City of Bulawayo in Harare

“It is through collective efforts at the grassroots level that sustainable development and a flourishing economy are achieved,” said Hon. Garwe.

The minister applauded the diaspora community for its growing interest in supporting national development efforts aligned with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an empowered and prosperous upper middle-income society.

“This vision is also supported by the Africa Agenda 2063, particularly the pillar of ‘Africa for Africans,’ and the wise words of our leaders who remind us that ‘Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo, Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’—a nation is built by its people,” he said.

Minister Garwe underscored the vital role local authorities play as sustainable contributors to Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product, praising the City of Bulawayo for its proactive development agenda.

He cited several key initiatives launched by the city, including the Sports Economy Initiative and the Bulawayo Economic Development Conference, as models of innovation and diaspora engagement.

“The government is committed to creating a conducive environment for investment and is keen to work with all stakeholders, particularly Zimbabweans abroad, to rebuild and modernize our cities,” said Garwe.

The Khumbulekhaya programme—which translates to “remember home of Bulawayo”—aims to reconnect diaspora communities with their roots and encourage their participation in infrastructure, economic revival, and urban transformation efforts in Bulawayo.

Garwe urged other local authorities across Zimbabwe to emulate Bulawayo’s efforts by identifying opportunities that attract both diaspora and international investors.

“Let us foster an environment where investment flows freely from local to global, fueling our development goals,” he added.

Also addressing the gathering, Matabeleland Chamber of Industries Director, Mr. Bekithemba Nkomo, noted: “Investment is not about funding, but it is about faith so as to catalyze meaningful progress for the city.”

The event was attended by senior government officials, Mayor of Bulawayo His Worship Senator David Coltart, Acting Town Clerk Mrs. S. Zhou, and representatives from the business community and development agencies.