Economic issues under spotlight at 3-day conference
THE City of Bulawayo is set to host the inaugural three-day Bulawayo Economic Development Conference (Bedcon25) to tackle economic challenges facing local businesses and drive sustainable growth.
To be held under the theme “Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Economic Development,” the conference seeks to bring together key stakeholders from various sectors to craft innovative solutions for the city’s economic revival.
Scheduled to run from April 9 to 11, Bedcon25 will provide the perfect platform for Government officials, business leaders, academics, researchers, economic think tanks and civil society representatives to dissect issues constraining businesses operating in the city.
The forum is expected to provide a platform for participants to exchange ideas, share best practices and forge strategic partnerships to drive economic progress.
Discussions during the conference are also expected to proffer solutions to Bulawayo’s economic challenges, explore successful development models from other regions and establish partnerships that promote inclusive and sustainable growth.
In addition, the forum will also identify key economic hurdles and opportunities, attract investment into the city, advocate for economic reforms and enhance public-private partnerships for collaborative development.
According to a document shared by City Economic Development Officer Mr Kholisani Moyo, fostering discussions and collaborations at Bedcon25 would stimulate economic growth and development strategies, ultimately leading to job creation and improved living standards.
“The conference can serve as a platform to attract both local and foreign investments by showcasing opportunities across various sectors,” the document states.
“Insights gained from the conference can inform government policies aimed at economic recovery and growth.”
The conference will focus on critical economic pillars, including strategies to rejuvenate Bulawayo’s industrial sector and enhance its global competitiveness.
It will also highlight the role of digital transformation and technological innovation in economic development.
Addressing water scarcity and improving efficiency in water management is another key priority issue to come under discussion at the conference.
The city has been grappling with persistent water shortages, leading to prolonged water shedding, with some areas experiencing weeks without supply.
Economic analyst, Mr Gilbert Khuzwayo described Bedcon25 as a significant step in Bulawayo’s journey towards economic transformation.
“As Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, Bulawayo has long been recognised as an industrial hub.
“This conference aims to reposition it (City of Bulawayo) as a leader in sustainable, inclusive and equitable economic growth,” he said.
“With key stakeholders coming together to shape the future, the conference is set to leave a lasting impact on the city and the nation at large.”
Mr Khuzwayo further emphasised the opportunities Bedcon25 presents.
“For businesses, policymakers and investors, this conference represents an unparalleled opportunity to be part of Zimbabwe’s economic renaissance.”
Another economist, Ms Alice Chikonzi, hailed the upcoming conference as a crucial platform for revitalising the city’s economy.
Speaking ahead of the event, she underscored its significance in fostering investment, policy dialogue and strategic collaborations that could reshape Bulawayo’s economic landscape.
“Bedcon25 comes at a critical time when Bulawayo is seeking to reassert itself as Zimbabwe’s industrial hub,” Ms Chikonzi remarked.
“The conference presents an opportunity to address long-standing challenges such as de-industrialisation, infrastructure gaps and investment bottlenecks.”
She urged stakeholders to leverage the conference to craft long-term economic strategies that ensure inclusive growth.
“For Bulawayo to thrive, we need policies that attract investment, improve the ease of doing business and support local industries. Bedcon25 should serve as a catalyst for these discussions,” she said.
With growing anticipation around the event, Bedcon25 could mark a turning point in Bulawayo’s economic trajectory, reinforcing its position as a key player in Zimbabwe’s development agenda.-chroncile
