Tinotenda Hove- Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Ezra Chadzamira has told residents to “make money” from major events coming to the province, but his message has raised questions over whether government is offering genuine economic opportunities or simply shifting the burden of economic survival onto struggling citizens.

Addressing a ZANU PF Provincial Inter-District meeting at Masvingo Polytechnic on Sunday, Chadzamira urged residents to cash in on two major events — the 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo and the 2027 National Independence celebrations, which will be hosted by Mwenezi District.

“Make money, Itai mari, this is your time to capitalize on the available opportunities,” Chadzamira told Zanu PF members.

The blunt message comes at a time when many ordinary Zimbabweans continue to face rising living costs, limited formal employment and a difficult business environment. Against that backdrop, simply telling citizens to “make money” risks sounding more like political rhetoric than a credible economic intervention.

Chadzamira presented the two events as opportunities for residents to benefit from increased economic activity. However, he offered little detail on what provincial authorities are doing to ensure that small businesses, informal traders, transport operators, accommodation providers and other local entrepreneurs can actually benefit.

Hosting a tourism expo or national celebration may generate temporary business activity, but the real test will be whether the events leave behind sustainable economic benefits for communities.

There are also concerns that large events can create opportunities for established businesses while leaving smaller players on the margins if access to contracts, trading spaces and other commercial opportunities is not transparent.

Chadzamira’s “make money” appeal therefore places the spotlight back on government. If authorities genuinely expect residents to profit from the events, they will need to provide more than motivational slogans.

They must demonstrate how ordinary people will access the opportunities, what support will be available to local businesses and how the anticipated economic gains will be distributed.

For now, Chadzamira’s message may sound encouraging, but without concrete measures behind it, “Itai mari” risks becoming another political catchphrase in a province where many residents are still waiting for meaningful economic transformation.