Bulawayo — Three major industrial projects in Bulawayo, including the new ZITF Fairgrounds Shopping Mall, are set to create over 400 jobs and boost the city’s industrialisation and modernisation drive, the government has said.

The projects, which are expected to be completed in the coming months, have already created employment for locals, signalling a tangible dividend of devolution as development spreads beyond the capital.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the developments were in line with government’s Vision 2030 target of attaining upper middle-income economy status.

“What we have seen today is encouraging. Industry in Bulawayo is being revived. These projects show that we are on the right path towards Vision 2030. The Second Republic is committed to re-industrialising Bulawayo,” he said.

One of the projects is the US$24 million Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Smart City retail development, which is expected to expand the facility’s capacity to host commercial, hospitality and international conference activities throughout the year.

Shumba Group, a Bulawayo-based entity specialising in animal health, environment and fumigation products, has named the Government of Zimbabwe as its biggest trade partner. Established in 1982, the group has grown into a brand to reckon with, penetrating regional and international markets and securing a perfect spot in the regional market.

Fats and Feed Plant, a cooking oil giant, has also carved a perfect spot in Zimbabwe’s food and supply chain, with job creation driven through enhanced sustainability and industrial symbiosis. The entity is currently expanding its plant and factory centre in Bulawayo, a move expected to boost Zimbabwe’s local content products.

The developments underscore the role of devolution in rebuilding Bulawayo’s industrial muscle, with local projects delivering jobs and economic activity directly to the city’s residents.

Supply Chain Manager at Fat and Feeds Private Limited, Zacharia Mupachike, said construction of the company’s plant had started about six months ago, with production expected to begin in December.

“We started construction works about 6 months ago; we are targeting to complete this project by December so that we can start production. The reason why we decided to build a plant here is we realised that there is a market here,” he said.

Permanent Secretary for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Paul Nyoni, said the industrial projects were expected to generate employment and contribute to economic growth.

“These industrial projects are critical for Bulawayo. They are reviving our industry, creating employment and contributing to the national GDP. This is devolution in action,” he said.