Tinashe Makichi
President Emmerson Mnangagwa said quality infrastructure with notable investments in real estate is key going forward as the country prepares for intensive economic activities.
He said the Government mantra is now centered around business and economic activities with politics no longer being the main driver.
President Mnangagwa was speaking at the official opening of the second phase of a state-of-the-art mall, Village Walk, at Sam Levy’s Village in Borrowdale, Harare on the 23rd of March. The Village Walk Mall is jointly owned by TM/Pick n Pay and Innscor Limited.
President Mnangagwa said Mopani Property Development has promised to do further investments of that nature in the future.
“As our country prepares for intensive economic activities, the availability of quality infrastructure becomes key. Investment in real estate and infrastructure is by and large one of the key pillars of economic development as it stimulates supply chain linkages such as steel, cement and roofing materials,” said President Mnangagwa.
He said under the new dispensation business now takes precedence over politics citing that investors must shun corruption and focus on doing business using the correct channels.
“Now, business takes front seat and politics takes a back seat. The cost of short-cuts and the disregard of local authority by-laws and architectural requirements have far reaching and dire implications to one’s investments. Individuals and corporate property investors must therefore make sound and corrupt-free decisions,”said the President.
He said the investment by Mopani Property Development (Pvt) Ltd for is a demonstration of goodwill and confidence in the new dispensation and the future of the country.
“This state-of-the-art infrastructure is a reflection of our renewal and modernisation of our country’s image, thereby going a long way towards motivating other investors to do business in Zimbabwe.”
President Mnangagwa said infrastructure development, real estate and land development players must design and align their investments with the Government’s vision and national aspirations in mind.
“It is commendable that this investment will lead to creation of employment and availability of space for business, shopping and leisure not only for residents within this vicinity, but also for consumers within the city and beyond.
“I, therefore, urge the tenants of this mall to have the needs of a broader market segment in mind and offer a wide range of products which are affordable.”
The President said his administration that has adopted the “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” approach, welcomed both local and foreign investors and urged them to identify the investment possibilities within the context of the country’s vision to become a middle income economy by 2030.
President Mnangagwa said Government remains committed to partner the private sector to help unlock value for sustainable economic recovery of the country.
Meikles Group chairman John Moxon, giving his address, said the Meikles Group was committed to investing in the country.
“The development of the Borrowdale Village Walk demonstrates our commitment to the growth of infrastructure and local investment that creates jobs in Zimbabwe,” he said.
