Call to utilise opportunities

THE political leadership in Matabeleland South Province has called on citizens in the province to identify and utilise opportunities that are predominately in the region.

Matabeleland South is endowed with minerals, like gold and lithium. The province is also rich in tourism activities, while cattle ranching is one of the major farming enterprises.

The province has seven district and each district has its own unique features that can contribute to the transformation of the province.

Addressing the Zanu PF Provincial Co-ordinating Committee last week, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, said people should invest in any of the sectors that are predominately in this area.

“We have a number of opportunities here in Matabeleland South. Our land is rich in minerals, we urge people from our own province to utilise these minerals and transform our area.

“We have a number of attractive places in which people can practice local tourism. Our land is good, people should engage the Ministry of National Housing and build apartments that will reduce the burden of accommodation. It is now people’s decision to utilise any of these opportunities and transform this area,” Dr Ndlovu said.

People, she also said, should invest in businesses that will both develop the area and contribute to the provincial’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“It can start as a small venture, and going forward it will bear fruits that will increase our GDP. One can thrive in any sector and register on the Stock Exchange, and people from reputable organisations may seek partnerships. At the end, business will be growing and employment will be created. I challenge all district heads to lure investors that will transform our rainbow province,” Dr Ndlovu said.

Zanu PF Provincial chairman, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, said people should be strategical in utilising these resources, and ensure that land is not endangered.

“Out province is rich and these resources that are here should be strategically utilised. People should seek guidance from relevant authorities to ensure that you follow good procedures. We are happy that our seven districts have different avenues that can contribute to the GDP. The President is on record saying that ‘ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo’, let’s heed that call and ensure that we have a prosperous country,” said the provincial chairman.

Under the Second Republic Matabeleland South Province has seen robust infrastructure development with the modernisation of Beitbridge Border post, the revitalisation of irrigation schemes, among other projects.