THE Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has called on local authorities to view businesses not as mere sources of revenue through rates and levies, but as partners in the development of communities.
Speaking at the recent Harare Entrepreneurs and Business Awards (HEBA), the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavhunga, encouraged local authorities to create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
“I am acutely aware of the critical role that our local authorities play in creating an environment conducive to business growth. The Ministry is committed to streamlining regulatory processes, reducing bureaucratic impediments, and ensuring that our urban and rural councils become facilitators rather than obstacles to enterprise development.
“We are working assiduously to improve infrastructure — roads, water systems and sanitation facilities — because we understand that businesses cannot thrive in environments lacking basic amenities. The devolution programme, which allocates resources directly to local authorities, is designed to ensure that development reaches every corner of our nation,” he said.
“I encourage our local authorities to view businesses not as mere sources of revenue through rates and levies, but as partners in the development of our communities. A thriving business sector translates into a broader tax base, improved service delivery and enhanced quality of life for all residents.”
He said the Government recognises the private sector not as a peripheral player, but as the engine room of economic transformation in line with Vision 2030, which seeks to attain an upper middle-income economy.
The Deputy Minister said the aspirations of Vision 2030 could not be realised through Government effort alone, but also required a robust, dynamic and innovative private sector working in concert with public institutions.
He added: “Industrial growth is the cornerstone upon which modern economies are built. It is through industrialisation that we create employment for our youth, generate foreign currency and reduce our dependence on imports. The Second Republic, under the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa, has created unprecedented opportunities for private sector participation through policy reforms, infrastructural development and the establishment of Special Economic Zones.”
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Deputy Minister Mavhunga said the private sector was not merely a partner in development, but the catalyst that transforms policy into prosperity, intention into industry and vision into tangible economic growth.
He said the motto of the ceremony, “Buy Zimbabwe, Our Pride, Our Future”, spoke to the essence of economic patriotism.
“Every time we choose a Zimbabwean product over an imported alternative, we are casting a vote of confidence in our fellow citizens who toil daily in factories, workshops and enterprises across this land.
“The Buy Zimbabwe campaign is not merely a slogan; it is a national imperative. When we support local products and services, we keep capital circulating within our borders, sustain jobs for our brothers and sisters, and build the industrial base that future generations shall inherit,” he said.
A representative from financial institution Lenderspark General, Mr Bernard Gambe, emphasised the critical role of strategic financial support and astute capital management in scaling businesses.
“Beyond funding, it is about building financial intelligence and resilience. Sustainable success is forged when visionary ideas are matched with disciplined financial strategy,” he said.
One of the HEBA organisers, Mr Philimon Nyirenda, said the awards were not merely a ritual of recognition, but a vital catalyst for future growth, designed to illuminate pathways of excellence and challenge the business community to ascend to new pinnacles of innovation, ethical leadership and societal impact.
Dr Phillip Chiyangwa was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Ms Sekai Madubeko was named Businesswoman of the Year and Mr Bernard Gambe of Lenderspark Finance received the Manager of the Year award, among others presented.-herald
