2024 Annual Congress Report - OFFICIAL OPENING - Welcome to Victoria Falls and Matabeleland North Province
The Acting Mayor of Victoria Falls City warmly welcomed delegates to the City of Victoria Falls, emphasizing the city's role as a hub of entrepreneurial dynamism in Zimbabwe.
Acting Mayor of the City of Victoria Falls – Councillor P. Muhlanga
Hosting this prestigious event, which gathers leading business and industry figures, the Mayor highlighted Victoria Falls as an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors, committed to driving economic growth and development. The Congress was lauded as a vital platform for sharing knowledge, ideas, and best practices, essential for creating a brighter future for Zimbabwe. The Mayor also stressed the importance of adapting to global economic complexities by embracing changing markets, systems, and investing in human capital.
Victoria Falls was described as a City embodying diversity and innovation, supporting businesses of all sizes, and prioritizing infrastructure improvements and sustainable tourism practices. Emphasizing the empowerment of SMEs, identified as the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, the Mayor expressed gratitude to the ZNCC for choosing Victoria Falls as the venue. The Mayor looked forward to insightful discussions shaping the future of the Zimbabwean economy, reinforcing the city’s potential as a key player in the nation’s economic landscape. The welcoming address was well-received, setting a positive tone for the Congress and aligning with its theme of “Unlocking New Frontiers for Sustainable Industrialization and Climate-Smart Business Growth."
Office of the President and Cabinet, Matabeleland Province - Mr. Kayela
Mr. Kayela, representing the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution of Matabeleland North Province, warmly welcomed delegates to the 2024 ZNCC Annual Congress in Victoria Falls. He emphasized the significance of hosting the event in Matabeleland North, highlighting its role in driving economic activity and advancing the province's economy. Mr. Kayela stressed that the Congress theme aligns with the Head of State’s vision for sustainable industrial growth and practices, calling for the unlocking of the economy’s full potential while ensuring environmental sustainability. He urged delegates to embrace innovation and create greener ecosystems, in line with international climate and sustainability agreements.
Furthermore, Mr. Kayela highlighted Matabeleland North’s rich endowment of lithium deposits and ecotourism opportunities, and called on potential investors to consider investing in the province’s future economy. He noted that Victoria Falls is home to the USD-denominated Stock Exchange, reinforcing the city’s status as a prime investment destination. The remarks set a positive tone for the Congress, emphasizing the region’s readiness to adopt sustainable and innovative economic practices and promoting energy efficiency and the greening of the economy.