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Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
A GROUP of business representatives from the International Municipality Forum of BRICS countries is in Bulawayo to scout for investment opportunities and potential partnerships with local players.

IMBRICS Forum is a platform for the exchange of experience and ideas between representatives of regional and municipal governments from the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries.

It seeks to promote the building of effective business communications with entrepreneurs as well as fostering innovation, diverse collaboration and sustainability.

Speaking at a Bulawayo Business Breakfast meeting and African Innovation Roundtable Zimbabwe 2024 hosted by Bulawayo City Council yesterday, IMBRICS ambassador for Southern Africa, Mr Stuart Ntlathi, said Zimbabwe has a lucrative investment environment with natural endowments, being supported by highly skilled and hard-working workforce.

He said BRICS and partner countries have prioritised the development of a highly skilled and educated workforce.

“We are here to see what is the possible marriage between the City of Bulawayo and BRICS countries,” said Mr Ntlathi.

“While I was doing my research on preparing for us to be here, I realised that there are opportunities for trade and investment in Zimbabwe where BRICS nations are concerned.

“Zimbabwe has got abundant natural resources, which include minerals and agricultural land and that’s untapped investment potential,” he said.

“This presents a unique opportunity for BRICS countries to partner with Zimbabwe and leverage these resources for regional economic benefit.”

Zimbabwe boasts a highly educated and skilled workforce, which can be a valuable asset in attracting BRICS investment and fostering collaborative innovative projects in cities like Bulawayo.

Mr Ntlathi also spoke about the country’s strategic location in the Southern African region saying being the heart of Southern Africa it serves as the way to the region, thus, offering BRICS companies access to a vast and rapidly growing market and regional supply chains.

BRICS

He noted policy reforms and infrastructure development by Zimbabwe as positive strides for investment attractiveness.

“These four pillars can make Zimbabwe a perfect partner for BRICS countries and we will continue to advocate for Zimbabwe to be a permanent member of this important forum,” said the official.

“I have also seen Bulawayo as a strategic partner where BRICS is concerned, if we focus on collaborative efforts in science and technology.”

In her opening remarks, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, said Bulawayo was elated to host the delegation and reiterated the country’s inclusive development drive.

“We recognise the immense potential for collaboration. The IMBRICS companies represent a diverse array of economic experiences and innovations, and we are eager to explore how we can learn from each other and implement best practices,” she said.

“Our discussions today will reflect the core policies and principles of NDS1, which prioritise investment in key sectors such as agriculture, mining and tourism.”
Enhancing economic resilience, creating jobs and improving the quality of life for the citizens must always take centre, said the minister.

NDS1

“With support of partners from the IMBRICS nations, we can leverage our resources and talents to achieve these goals,” she added.

“We are committed to creating a conducive business environment, with supportive policies and infrastructure in place.

“Our city council is dedicated to facilitating your investment journey, ensuring seamless integration and mutually beneficial partnerships.”

In a speech read on his behalf by the deputy mayor, Councillor Edwin Ndlovu, the mayor, Councillor David Coltart, said Bulawayo is a rapidly growing city filled with untapped potential.

He said the city’s strategic location as a former industrial hub filled with a skilled workforce, and a robust infrastructure offers a fertile ground for investment and infrastructure development.

“As we navigate through global challenges, we recognise the importance of forging strong partnerships that transcend borders and cultures,” he said.

“It calls on us to come together for a shared vision, especially of changing the landscape of Africa to a first-world status.”

The Breakfast meeting was held at a local hotel and attended by the Bulawayo business community, which includes sector representatives and member organisations and associations. — @SikhulekelaniM1