Bulawayo, (New Ziana)–Zimbabwe is confident of winning the bid to host the 5th Intra-Africa Trade Fair (IATF) in 2027, a senior official said on Tuesday.
Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Raji Modi said this while briefing the media following a tour of the city infrastructure by the Intra-Africa Trade Fair Host Bid Evaluation Committee.
Zimbabwe submitted its bid in November last year and has since been shortlisted alongside Malawi and Nigeria as potential hosts for the prestigious event.
Modi cited the country’s robust infrastructure and renowned hospitality as key factors that could tip the scales in its favour in the bid to host the IATF.
The evaluation committee, led by Gainmore Zanamwe from Afreximbank, includes representatives from esteemed organizations such as the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and Reeds Exhibitions. It has been in the country since Monday to assess its preparedness to host the event.
“The Committee’s assessment will inform the decision on whether Zimbabwe will be awarded the opportunity to host the prestigious event in 2027. I am 99.9 percent confident that we will win the bid to host this event,” said Modi.
“I also wish to inform you that the Committee toured the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Grounds to assess the venue’s suitability for the trade fair. They inspected the exhibition halls, conference facilities, and other amenities.”
Modi said in addition, the committee inspected airport facilities under the Airports Company of Zimbabwe (CAZ) to evaluate the country’s capacity to handle international flights and visitors.
“Further, the Committee inspected accommodation facilities in Bulawayo, including hotels and other lodging options, to assess their suitability for delegates and visitors,” he explained.
Modi explained the potential economic benefits of hosting the trade fair, noting that it would create job opportunities for locals and boost the tourism sector.
“Zimbabwe now awaits the outcome of the evaluation process, hopeful that it will be chosen to host the 2027 Intra-Africa Trade Fair. If successful, the event could mark a significant milestone for the country, showcasing its potential as a hub for continental trade and investment,” he said.
New Ziana
