ZBCA Summit Kicks Off with High Hopes for Construction Industry Growth

By Shingirai Vambe

VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE – Under the majestic backdrop of one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders, the Zimbabwe Builders and Contractors Association (ZBCA) has gathered to celebrate 39 years of promoting excellence in the construction industry. The milestone achievements is being marked with a high-profile summit, bringing together local building contractors, regional counterparts, and key stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, share best practices, and explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

The summit, running under the theme “Leveraging Investment in Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Economic Growth,” has attracted a wide range of participants, including government officials, industry experts, and representatives from regional and international organizations.

In his opening remarks, ZBCA President Tinashe Manzungu emphasized the importance of the construction industry in driving economic growth and development. “The Zimbabwe Building Contractors Association was established in 1985 as a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering emergent building contractors across various sectors. Our mission is crystal clear: to promote, empower, and capacitate our growing membership while advocating for equity, fairness, and justice within the construction sector,” Manzungu said.

Manzungu also highlighted the association’s commitment to fostering partnerships that empower local contractors, drive economic growth, and enhance the socio-economic fabric of communities. “In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, reducing inequality, and enhancing the quality of life for all Zimbabweans,” he added.

Vice President Constantino Guvheya Chiwenga officially opened the summit, emphasizing the need for greater cooperation and investment in infrastructure development. “The construction industry is a key enabler of economic growth, and we must work together to create an environment that fosters investment, innovation, and inclusivity,” Chiwenga said.

Chiwenga also stressed the importance of promoting green energy and inclusivity in the construction industry. “We must prioritize the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly infrastructure, and ensure that persons with disabilities are fully included in the construction process,” he added.

The summit has also seen the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ZBCA, Master Builders South Africa, Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA), and The Bantwana Zimbabwe. The MoU aims to promote collaboration, policy advocacy, and skills development in the construction industry.

In his closing remarks, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works Benjamin Kabikira praised ZBCA’s commitment to promoting excellence in the construction industry. “The theme of this summit challenges the industry to redouble its efforts in support of Government’s initiatives in the built environment. We acknowledge the significant strides made by ZBCA in promoting skills development, upholding high standards, and fostering regional cooperation,” Kabikira said.

As the construction industry continues to play a critical role in driving economic growth and development in Zimbabwe, the ZBCA summit has provided a platform for stakeholders to come together and explore new opportunities for collaboration and investment. With its rich history and commitment to promoting excellence, ZBCA is poised to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the construction industry in Zimbabwe.