Published: 03 May 2019

Local authorities here have been challenged to embrace the "ease of doing business" concept to enhance the achievement of a middle-income economy in line with the Government's Vision 2030.

Speaking on the sidelines of recent stakeholders meeting held in Chiredzi, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs in Masvingo Ezra Chadzamira said it was important for all councils in the province to contribute to the province's US$5 billion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2023 through attracting investments.

He noted with concern some delays by some local authorities to approve investment applications, mostly on flimsy procedural reasons.

"We encourage all councils both urban and rural, to operate in line with the Government's vision to achieve a middle income economy by 2030," said Chadzamira.

"They can achieve this through embracing the ease of doing business concept as per the Government thrust to propel economic recovery initiatives.

"There are many economic drivers under the jurisdiction of local authorities that attract investors and we encourage them to embark on robust marketing strategies.

"In Chiredzi, we have Gonarezhou National Park, home to the big five animals. We also have Save Valley Conservancy where tourists always come for hunting.

"We also have Chilo Gorge Lodge which is situated in a pristine wilderness with rooms that provide high level ambiance. All these are tourist attractions which can add value to the district of Chiredzi, if marketed well."

Chadzamira said local authorities should play a leading role in making the devolution dream a living reality. He said for any investment to take place in a particular district, there should be heavy involvement of a local authority and that nothing could be done without councils giving direction.

"We depend on local authorities, both urban and rural district councils, for the province's economic progress," said Chadzamira.

"They have a say on the amount of natural resources in existence and how much the investor may commit in order to tap them." Chadzamira called on local authorities to have their own action plans, which will serve as a development template, as part of the devolution agenda.
- the herald