By Desire Tshuma
BULAWAYO – Bulawayo is on the verge of a major economic facelift as a US$24 million commercial complex rises at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) grounds, in a project Government says proves devolution is no longer just talk but delivering real jobs and investment.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda toured the massive construction site on Friday, where excavators and builders are already on the ground laying the foundation for what will become one of Bulawayo’s biggest commercial hubs.
The project will feature a state-of-the-art shopping mall, two hotels and modern commercial facilities, with the mall being delivered first. The entire complex is expected to be complete by end of 2027.
In an exclusive interview, Dr Soda said the development was deliberately chosen by Bulawayo itself, not Harare.
“The project is in line with what the people of Bulawayo require. This is aligned to the principle of devolution, where provinces have to determine what they would want to see being developed in their provinces,” he said.
He said the old system of top-down planning had failed communities.
“Previously, projects would be determined at national level, but a lot of gaps then emerged. We could just think of what people required without the basic consultation which needed to happen,” Dr Soda said.
The jobs dividend is already showing.
At least 350 to 400 builders are currently employed on site, with 75 percent being Bulawayo residents. When complete, the complex will create 400 permanent jobs in retail, hospitality and services, plus opportunities for local suppliers.
“This is not just about buildings. It is about jobs, business opportunities for locals and making Bulawayo attractive to investors and tourists again,” Dr Soda added.
The development is expected to cement Bulawayo’s comeback as Zimbabwe’s industrial capital, while giving the ZITF grounds a new commercial life beyond the annual trade showcase.
Construction is now in full swing, with Government saying the focus is on turning the investment into lasting benefits for the city.