Nkayi Diaspora Investment Event Sparks Hope for Economic Revival and Community Empowerment
Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Hon. Richard Moyo has emphasised the importance of efficiently exploiting Nkayi’s abundant natural resources while calling for collaboration between local communities and diaspora members to unlock the district’s untapped potential.
He said this during the Nkayi Diaspora Investment event held on October 10, 2024, The event, aimed at transforming Nkayi’s economic landscape through diaspora investment, was represented by Godfrey Mukwakwami, the Director of Economic Affairs and Investment.
Speaking on his behalf of Moyo, Mukwakwami highlighted the district’s rich mineral deposits and agricultural opportunities saying, “Efficient exploitation of our natural resources can significantly uplift living standards.”
The event attracted stakeholders from various sectors, including humanitarian organisations, local businesses, and members of the diaspora, all eager to address Nkayi’s historical marginalisation.
Nkayi district coordinator, Matilda Mlotshwa, outlined the event’s dual purpose, “We aim to expose opportunities available in our district while fostering community-led initiatives.” She stressed that attracting investors could reduce dependency on external aid and enhance livelihoods for local residents.
A significant focus of the event was on addressing infrastructure challenges, particularly the deteriorating roads that hinder investment. Mlotshwa noted, “The bad state of the Bulawayo-Nkayi road deters potential investors,” underscoring the need for improvements to facilitate easier access for business and trade.
This initiative follows the successful Binga Diaspora Investment Event, which raised over US$50,000 for community projects. Stakeholders are optimistic that the Nkayi conference will similarly galvanise support for essential services like education and healthcare, aiming to improve the overall quality of life in the region.
USAID-funded Amalima Loko Chief of Party, Dominic Graham remarked on the positive response from both local and international businesses. “This reflects a genuine interest in investing in rural communities,” he said.
Amalima Loko, which operates from 2020 to 2025 with a budget of $82.6 million, seeks to elevate the livelihoods of over 67,848 vulnerable households across Matabeleland North through increased food security and sustainable watershed management practices. By promoting community resilience and nutrition-sensitive initiatives, the program aligns with the government’s vision for economic growth and poverty reduction.
The Nkayi Diaspora Investment event serves as a collaborative platform aimed at forging lasting partnerships that extend beyond the conference itself. With a focus on sustainable development and community empowerment, it represents a critical step toward revitalising the district’s economy.
Mlotshwa reiterated the importance of community involvement, stating, “We are committed to ensuring that development is driven by local needs and aspirations.” The collaborative efforts aim to create an environment conducive to investment, fostering socio-economic growth that benefits all residents.
As the Nkayi community looks to the future, the outcomes of this investment event could play a pivotal role in transforming the district’s economic landscape, enhancing infrastructure, and improving essential services. By harnessing the potential of both local and diaspora stakeholders, Nkayi aims to break free from its historical challenges and build a more prosperous future for its residents.
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