Chongqing’s Urban Development: A Blueprint for Zim...

Chongqing’s Urban Development: A Blueprint for Zimbabwe’s New Capital in Mount Hampden

By Monica Cheru in Beijing

Chongqing, one of China’s four directly governed municipalities, has transformed into a model of urbanization, blending rapid development with sustainable practices.

This was revealed during a press conference on thew sidelines of the ongoing Two Sessions in Beijing.

Several deputies who presented during the media briefing demonstrated how the sprawling metropolis in southwestern China, is a city of contrasts and dynamism, making it a key player in the nation's development narrative.

As one of China's four direct-controlled municipalities, Chongqing boasts a population of over 31 million people, making it the most populous city in China and one of the largest in the world by population.

**Caption: An astonishing night view of Chongqing from Chaotianmen Port- CGTN**

Known as the "Mountain City" due to its hilly terrain, Chongqing is also a major industrial and economic hub, contributing significantly to China's GDP. In 2022, the city's GDP reached approximately 2.79 trillion yuan (about $430 billion), reflecting its robust economic growth and strategic importance.

Zimbabwe’s ambitious plan to establish a new capital in Mount Hampden, anchored by the Chinese-funded Parliament building, draws parallels to Chongqing’s urban journey.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa highlighted this vision, noting that “the completion of the parliament building heralds the start of a new capital city that is meant to decongest Harare.”

The presenters at the media briefing said that Chongqing’s success is mired in key strategies including Integrated Urban-Rural Development, Infrastructure Expansion and Smart City Initiatives.

Chongqing representatives said the area has “integrated development of urban and rural areas as it is a megacity with a vast rural and mountainous area, and a reservoir area all in one.”

The Chongqing Municipal Government has and will continue to focus on “improving basic urban infrastructures and closing inter- and intra-district and county development gaps.”

Chongqing has embraced technology to improve urban management and services, setting a benchmark for modern cities. This has been crucial in getting real time data to predict natural disasters like fires and take preventative actions to save lives and property from damage.

The development of Mount Hampden as Zimbabwe’s new administrative and commercial capital is gaining momentum. The government has “commenced the servicing of land in Mt Hampden, where the country’s new commercial and administrative capital is set to rise.”

Central to this development is the new Parliament building, a symbol of the burgeoning city, which was donated by the government of China to the people of Zimbabwe.

President Mnangagwa remarked that the relocation of Parliament to Mt. Hampden would be “a catalyst for subsequent developments throughout the area as government offices and other institutions relocate.”

Additionally, the proposed Cyber City aims to position Mount Hampden as a hub for technological innovation and investment, mirroring aspects of Chongqing’s smart city advancements.

Chongqing's role in the Two Sessions—China's annual political gatherings—is particularly noteworthy. As a critical transportation and logistics center, the city is pivotal in the Belt and Road Initiative, connecting China's western regions to global markets.

Its unique status as a municipality directly under the central government allows it to implement national policies with greater agility, making it a focal point for discussions on regional development, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability during the Two Sessions.

For Zimbabwe, Chongqing serves as a compelling example of how strategic planning and policy implementation can drive urban and economic transformation on a massive scale.

Lessons from Chongqing for Mount Hampden

• Balanced Development: Emulating Chongqing’s integrated urban-rural strategy can ensure inclusive growth in Mount Hampden.

• Infrastructure Investment: Prioritizing infrastructure can enhance connectivity and economic prospects.

• Technological Integration: Incorporating smart technologies can improve urban management and attract tech-focused investments.

Chongqing’s evolution offers valuable insights for Zimbabwe as it embarks on developing Mount Hampden. By adopting strategies that emphasize integrated development, infrastructure, and technology, Zimbabwe can create a capital that meets contemporary needs and aspirations.