KEY POINTS
- Innovation hubs are driving ICT advancements and product development in Mashonaland Central.
- New industries like optometry and water treatment are transforming local services.
- Vision 2030 initiatives are boosting economic growth and reducing import dependency.
Mashonaland Central Province is making impressive strides in development, leveraging indigenous materials and innovative solutions to tackle local challenges.
During a media tour on Thursday, projects across various sectors highlighted the transformative impact of technology and government-led initiatives in the region.
At Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE), the creation of an innovation hub is fueling advancements in ICT and natural product value addition.
The hub is providing opportunities for students and staff to develop software, health products, and beauty care items using local resources.
One student shared, “Working at the innovation hub has been an incredible opportunity, especially as I pursue my degree in software engineering.”
Promoting local business and commercial services
Mashonaland Central has also noted a rise in the industrial turn out with projects such as the optometry clinic project of BUSE and the water treatment project of Chillmund Chemicals.
The optometry clinic has commenced its operation in 2023 and has been receiving its patients from all over the country due to its efficiency. “We are able to provide eyeglasses to the patients in two to three days,” an official boastfully said.
Chillmund Chemicals mandated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in October, 2023 is touching core water treatment deficit. Fully functional, the plant manufactures aluminum sulfate and expects to upscale with a new sulphuric acid producing facility.
Additionally, fertilizer production in Bindura has contributed significantly to the government’s Pfumvudza/Intwasa program, with FSG supplying 70 percent of the required fertilizer this season.
According to ZBC News, this development is not only reducing reliance on imports but also boosting local employment.
Building toward Vision 2030
Local leaders, Provincial Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Christopher Magomo included, continue to express support for Vision 2030.
The economic transformation strategy aims at the upper middle income country status through the effective execution of the principles of the NDS1 and as preparation for NDS2.
“This is economic transformation at its best,” said Magomo. “Our projects in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing are setting the stage for sustained growth.”
Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Dr. Jenfan Muswere highlighted the role of technology in driving productivity and reducing costs.
“The success stories under President Mnangagwa’s leadership show how innovation is boosting our economy and improving the livelihoods of Zimbabweans,” he said.
Mashonaland Central’s agricultural success, fueled by the government’s land reform program, will take center stage on Friday as the media tour shifts focus to the province’s thriving farming sector.
