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Cape Town entrepreneur James Macadam brings Pan-African business vision to Zimbabwe

Local News
Cape Town-based entrepreneur James Macadam, widely known as Jimmy Jimalo

Cape Town-based entrepreneur James Macadam, widely known as Jimmy Jimalo, has announced ambitious plans to expand his business empire into Zimbabwe, signaling his confidence in the country's economic potential.

With over 30 years of experience, Macadam aims to leverage his expertise in entertainment, hospitality, manufacturing, and distribution to make a significant impact across the region through his Jimmy Jimalo Group.

In an interview, Macadam outlined a diverse portfolio of projects for Zimbabwe, including a luxury hotel in Victoria Falls featuring a dedicated amphitheatre to host an annual Victoria Falls Jazz Festival. 

The festival, he plans, will feature "A-list" celebrities from the United States.

His vision extends to establishing a chain of miniature golf courses, a mini-brewery, and a liquor distribution company.

Macadam brings a strong track record in the entertainment industry, having collaborated with international stars like Pharrell Williams, Snoop Dogg, and Sean Paul during their African tours. 

His work in South Africa also includes partnerships with renowned artists such as the late Zahara and Lebo Mathosa, as well as numerous Zimbabwean musicians.

He credits part of his entrepreneurial drive to his relative, prominent businessman Philip Chiyangwa.

 "Philip went from being a vegetable vendor to becoming a billionaire, and his success has been a driving force for me," Macadam said.

Macadam will be joined by his friend and advisor, Denour Hicks, an African American business partner. Together, they will focus on launching the liquor production and distribution arm, along with advancing the music promotion and Victoria Falls hotel project.

Macadam expressed strong optimism about Zimbabwe's economic trajectory.

"Under His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, we've noticed tremendous infrastructure development, which has inspired us to come up with creative ideas to stimulate the economy through entrepreneurship," he stated.

He believes the government's efforts have created a fertile ground for business and is excited to contribute to the country's growth.

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