The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has purchased new yellow equipment as part of a long-term investment to support the city’s turnaround strategy and help maintain critical infrastructure ahead of this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
The equipment acquired includes one CAT grader, two CAT front-end loaders and four Holland tractors.
According to the latest council minutes, Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart announced the procurement, noting that the equipment meets international standards and will serve the city for many years if properly maintained.
“This machinery would last Council for many years to come if properly maintained,” Senator Coltart remarked.
In a move to restore the aesthetic appeal of the city centre, the Mayor also revealed that the iconic fountain outside City Hall is currently undergoing refurbishment.
With ZITF approaching, the local authority is racing against time to make sure the fountain is operational for the festivities.
“The anticipation was to have the fountain repairs completed before the ZITF period. These were small things that brought back the glory of the City,” said the Mayor, adding that an official welcome event for ZITF exhibitors is planned to take place at the site once repairs are completed.
Coltart also said infrastructure development remains a top priority, with significant progress reported on major road networks and commercial hubs.
Following meetings with the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), the Council has prioritised the repair of Matopos Road and Airport Road, alongside other major thoroughfares, to make sure they are in peak condition before the ZITF period begins.
“A meeting was also held with ZINARA in line with road repairs in the City. Among the urgent roads that needed repairs was Matopos Road, which would be completed before the ZITF period. Airport Road would also be repaired and other major roads,” he said.
Discussions with the ZITF Manager have also touched on ambitious plans for the future, including the proposed construction of a new shopping mall adjacent to the trade fair grounds.
Meanwhile, the long-awaited Egodini project is poised for a new opportunity with the Mayor saying the developer, Terracotta, has secured a new investor.
The new investor is the same company now participating in the construction of the Zimbabwe Mall in Harare.
This collaboration is anticipated to hasten progress at the site, with activities set to begin soon.
The council minutes reported that a comprehensive report on the Egodini project is expected to be presented to the Council shortly.