THE government says the reindustrialisation of Bulawayo’s industries hinges on a shift in mindset among the city’s captains of industry.
Industry and Commerce deputy minister Raj Modi told business leaders that reviving Bulawayo’s industrial base requires embracing a 24-hour production economy, strengthening local supply chains and increasing support for indigenous suppliers and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) to improve competitiveness and drive sustainable economic growth.
The remarks were made during the Bulawayo Business Awards (BBA) ceremony held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair grounds in Bulawayo over the weekend.
The awards were held under the theme, Creating a Conducive Business Environment and Quality Standards for Industrial Competitiveness in a 24-Hour Economy.
Modi said Bulawayo was historically built as Zimbabwe’s industrial hub.
“To reclaim that mantle in a modern global market, we must change how we think about time and production. Transitioning towards a dynamic, round-the-clock economy is our definitive path to maximising efficiency, accelerating growth and creating sustainable jobs,” he said.
He emphasised that a truly competitive economy must be self-sustaining.
“This is why intentional localisation and the fortification of our domestic supply chains are critical strategic imperatives,” he said.
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Modi encouraged industry leaders to actively support local capacity, saying prioritising local procurement and nurturing indigenous suppliers retain value within the province, cushion the economy against global shocks and create opportunities for young people.
He also challenged larger corporates to open their supply chains to SMEs, mentoring and partnering them to promote shared growth.
BBA chief organiser Philimon Nyirenda said a city is defined by the ambition and integrity of those who build within it.
“Bulawayo stands at a pivotal crossroads and the BBA initiative is our collective commitment to ensuring that the path forward is paved with innovation, ethics and inclusive growth,” he said.
He said the awards were designed not only to recognise excellence but also to build a cohesive business ecosystem where commercial success and social responsibility reinforce each other.
“When a Bulawayo business thrives ethically, the city breathes easier, its people prosper and its future brightens,” he said.
Nyirenda invited stakeholders to join the initiative as nominees, strategic partners or mentors in driving the city’s economic revival.
