The Government has described Bulawayo’s creative and cultural sector as a critical pillar of economic growth, employment creation and national unity, pledging continued support for the industry.
Speaking during the Bulawayo Day celebrations at the Large City Hall on Monday, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Judith Ncube, said the city remained central to Zimbabwe’s cultural identity.
“When we celebrate Bulawayo, we are not just celebrating a city, we are celebrating the undeniable cultural heartbeat of Zimbabwe,” said Min Ncube.
“Bulawayo holds a unique space in our national narrative. It is an epicentre of history, a crucible of liberation, and the definitive capital of our country’s artistic expression.”
The celebrations, held under the theme, “Building Bridges, Preserving Connections,” marked 132 years since the city was declared a town.
Min Ncube said the theme resonates with the government’s development agenda, particularly the drive to empower communities through devolution.
“Through the Devolution Agenda, the government is committed to ensuring that local communities lead their own development, leveraging their unique resources. And here in Bulawayo, your greatest, most vibrant natural resource is your culture and your people,” she said.
“Culture is a unifying bridge. It crosses political, social and economic divides.
“While in the past, the creative industry was not seen as a viable sector and was always placed on the periphery when economic matters were being deliberated, the government recognises the potential of the creative sector and has taken deliberate steps to mainstream it for economic development.”
She noted that cultural and creative industries contribute significantly to employment creation, innovation and tourism development.
Commending local artists, Min Ncube said their contribution extends beyond entertainment.
“We commend the creative sector for not just providing entertainment, but for fostering national unity, which is the bedrock of national development.”
She also reflected on the recent national culture month launch at Barbourfields Stadium, where more than 100 artists performed together demonstrating unity and diversity.
“It proved to the entire nation that our diversity is not a fault line, it is our crowning glory,” she said.
“When 100 artists stand as one, speaking multiple languages through song, dance and poetry, they show us the Zimbabwe we are building a country rich in diversity but completely unified in purpose.”
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