IDBZ seeks partners to drive tourism infrastructure in provinces
THE Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) has invited investors for partnerships in developing tourism infrastructure across the country in an effort to make Zimbabwe a competitive destination.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe Mice Masterclass that was held to mark the start of the 17th edition of the Sanganani/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo on Wednesday, IDBZ director for independent evaluation, Engineer, Irene Kamutero-Goto said the infrastructure bank was keen to have footprint in every province.
She said already, projects are underway in Victoria Falls in Matabeleland North, Kanyemba in Mashonaland Central and Bulawayo.
Public-private partnerships and collaboration with Government can amplify the effectiveness of funding through joint efforts to pool resources together.
Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe
“Tourism is one of the secondary sectors IDBZ looks at and it is possible to have footprint in every province. In Kanyemba, Sterling Group of Hotels has invested in tourism infrastructure to move traffic in that province while in Victoria Falls the IDBZ is working with Mosi Development Company and has something here in Bulawayo,” said Eng Kamutero-Goto.
She said her bank encourages and invites investors that want to invest in tourism to come as partners.
“In recent years, the Mice sector has emerged as a cornerstone for global tourism and infrastructure is crucial for hosting conferences and events,” said Eng Kamutero-Goto.
She said with its cultural heritage, breathtaking endowments and business environment, Zimbabwe is uniquely positioned to become a destination for global meetings.
Eng Kamutero-Goto said hosting international events not only enhances Zimbabwe’s global profile but also stimulates local requirements, create jobs and cultural exchange.
She said modern well equipped venues are essential for attracting high profile international events hence the Government’s tourism strategy recognise the need to address the key tourism infrastructure.
“In Zimbabwe, the Mice sector represents a tremendous opportunity for economic growth. To fully capitalise on Mice tourism, we need targeted funds and grants in infrastructure development,” said Eng Kamutero-Goto.
She said investments are needed to build facilities such as conference centres, exhibition halls and hotels.
“Destinations can improve their competitiveness in the global Mice market and attract high profile events that drive economic growth and international engagement,” said Eng Kamutero-Goto.
She also said grants were needed for tourism infrastructure models and helping preserve natural resources while promoting growth.
“By investing in our Mice infrastructure and supporting events through targeted funding, we can build a robust thriving sector that contributes significantly to Zimbabwe’s economic and cultural growth,” said Eng Kamutero-Goto.
Funding initiatives and grants for Mice tourism, she said, are more than just financial investments, they are strategic drivers of our economic development, global engagement and cultural exchange.
During engagements, a participant from Bulawayo said collaborative efforts were needed to identify low-hanging fruits for investment into conference facilities to attract big meetings into the city.
Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Cde Apollonia Munzverengi, who was among senior Government officials that attended the Mice Masterclass said much was needed to unlock potential in provinces.
She said her province was failing to attract conferences and events because of lack of infrastructure.
“As Mashonaland East, we can’t even host 200 people yet the opportunities are vast. We have put together a concept document as we want to create a tourism corridor in our province,” said Cde Munzverengi.
“We have land for that, what is required is to establish infrastructure for tourism. I am therefore inviting everyone to come to Mashonaland East to identify available opportunities.” — chronicles
