Bulawayo City’s Economy Grew at An Average Rate of 5% During Outgoing Mayor’s Tenure
Outgoing Mayor Solomon Mguni revealed significant growth in the Bulawayo city’s economy, contributions to the country’s GDP, and successful investment inflow.
This was revealed when he presented a comprehensive report on the City of Bulawayo’s progress during the Council’s term of office from 2018 to 2023 in his Valedictory address on Thursday at the Large City Hall.
“The City has witnessed significant growth at an average rate of 5%. Bulawayo’s contribution to the country’s GDP has thus increased from 12% in 2018 to above 13.4% in 2023. This positive growth trajectory is attributed to key sectors such as food processing, tourism, clothing, and textile amongst others,” Mayor Mguni reported.
He further revealed the emergence of various industries such as food processing companies, Africa Steel, and hospitality facilities, including Sterling Hotel, Mavuna Guest Lodge, and the Derby Hotel, in the tourism and hospitality sector.
Employment Opportunities
The creation of several jobs and employment opportunities, such as the introduction of parking management systems and the emergence of small to medium business enterprises, has also contributed to an increase in the employment to population ratio.
Key government and private sector projects initiated during the period were at various stages of completion, such as the US$70 million NUST student’s residence, NUST innovation hub, Cowdray Park Clinic, rehabilitation of Health Facilities such as Thorngrove Hospital, Joshua Mqabuko Ekusileni Medical Centre, Mpilo Doctor’s Flats, Mater Dei Hospital, Cure Hospital, and Bartley Memorial Block at United Bulawayo Hospital.
In line with the Smart City Concept, the City also attracted various expressions of interest in solar and solid waste management projects, with about four projects, including the Bulawayo Water and Sewerage Improvement Services Project (BWSSSIP), at different stages of completion.
Mayor Mguni further noted that despite the challenges of brain drain, natural attrition, and limited financial resources affecting staff development and employment, the City employed almost 800 people, including interns and attachment students. The City’s Gender and Social Inclusion mainstreaming was also recognised by receiving several awards.
Audited Accounts
In terms of financial performance, the City produced annual budgets that were approved except for the supplementary budget of 2019. The backlog for the audited accounts was reduced from five to two years, and the City was working on the 2021 Audits with plans to complete them by the end of 2023. The City also accounted for outstanding debtor balances that were encouraged and reminded to pay bills on time.
Lastly, Mayor Solomon Mguni stated, “The City has achieved significant progress in various areas during the term of office from 2018-2023. We have faced several challenges, but we have shown resilience and progress in our efforts to develop and transform the City. We look forward to the next phase of our journey towards building a more prosperous and empowered society where every resident feels part of the City’s success story.”
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