The City of Bulawayo’s inaugural Khumbul’ekhaya Investment Conference (KIC) kicked off in Harare on July 30, attracting government officials, city leaders, and prospective investors as the city intensifies efforts to rebuild and grow its economy.

Among the delegates were Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works Hon. Albert Mavhunga (MP for Nketa), representing Minister Hon. Daniel Garwe, as well as representatives from the Office of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.

In her opening remarks, Acting Town Clerk Mrs. Sikhangele Zhou outlined the conference’s goal of attracting investment to Bulawayo, emphasizing that hosting the event in Harare was a strategic move to engage Bulawayo-born professionals and entrepreneurs now living in the capital.

The City presented an investment prospectus showcasing opportunities in sectors ranging from property development to tourism, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

Despite the city’s ambitious agenda, some Bulawayo residents have criticized the decision to host the conference outside the city, arguing that such initiatives should be held locally to directly benefit residents and businesses on the ground.

The KIC aims to position Bulawayo as an investment-ready hub and rekindle economic growth under the banner of “Khumbul’ekhaya”, remembering home.