Govt, local authorities seal partnership

Zim Now Writer

A partnership has been sealed between the government, local authorities and private players after the commissioning of the Mzilikazi Arts and Culture Centre in Bulawayo this Friday.

It was pomp and funfair at the commissioning of the centre, which will be a hub for nurturing talent in the country's second largest city.

“I came here looking for ways to provide for my family. Thanks to the government and its partners that dream has become possible,” said one of the beneficiaries.

Another added: “I am now a small business owner because of the work I do here at the arts centre.”

“We are grateful for the work that has been done here to improve the environment in which we work, we are safe from drugs and abuse when we are here,” said another beneficiary.

The facility is a culmination of a collaboration between the local authority and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.

“This centre is a place for vulnerable people to enable them to sustain their livelihoods while showcasing the talent that we have here in Bulawayo,” said Bulawayo Mayor, Senator David Coltart.

The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Winston Chitando said flagship ventures such as the Mzilikazi Arts and Culture Centre have the potential to drive local economic development.

“It is works such as these that make us all believe that the attainment of Vision 2030 is not just talk but we are heading towards that direction. Flagship enterprises such as the businesses that are taking place here are a step in driving not only local but national economic development,” he said.

The government has identified Infrastructure development as a key driver towards the attainment of an upper-middle-income society by 2030.