FINANCE minister Mthuli Ncube says the Matabeleland region pins its hopes on the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (Zida) to attract investment to the southern part of the country.
Commissioning Zida offices in Bulawayo on Friday last week, Ncube described the development as a milestone for Zida and the investment promotion landscape in Zimbabwe.
“The relocation and establishment of a much larger office with additional staff is a clear demonstration of the Government of Zimbabwe’s commitment to creating a more conducive investment environment, all across the country,” Ncube said.
The office is expected to help attract and support investment into the Bulawayo Metropolitan, Matabeleland North and South, Masvingo and the Midlands provinces.
“It is expected to continue to provide a one-stop shop for investors, offering a range of services, including business registration, licensing and investment advice,” he said.
Ncube said government had also undertaken several reforms and initiatives to promote and facilitate investment, especially in the southern region.
“This was demonstrated by the refurbishment and upgrade of the Beitbridge border post. The establishment of the Victoria Falls Exchange in the tourist city, which has increased investor and local business ability to raise capital in hard currency using different securities such as debt, equity and the recently regularised Real Estate Investment Trusts.”
The Finance ministry is currently working with Zida and other regulatory bodies such as the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority to establish an International Financial Services Centre in Victoria Falls as part of efforts to create an economic hub in the resort city, Ncube said.
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“I am confident that all these initiatives in the provinces under this office will soon show results, and that the region will become a major investment destination in the years to come,” he added.
Bulawayo Metropolitan minister Judith Ncube said the establishment of Zida offices was a clear signal to potential investors that Bulawayo is open for business.
“This will ensure sustainable and equitable development of the economy and create a better future for all Zimbabweans,” she said.
