Bulawayo Business Awards 2025 Celebrate Local Industry Champions and Economic Drivers

Fifty-four companies and organisations were honoured at the Bulawayo Business Awards 2025 for their outstanding contributions to the city’s economy and their positive impact on local communities. The event, which drew business leaders, government officials, and entrepreneurs, was held under the theme “Rewarding Business and Entrepreneurial Excellence.” It was organised by Youth Network Connect (YNC) in partnership with The Entrepreneurs Corner.

Presiding over the ceremony was Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Raj Modi, who praised the recipients for their role in strengthening the local economy through entrepreneurship and innovation. He emphasised the importance of supporting local industries, stating that localisation is a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s economic transformation strategy.

“This is through structured support of the production and consumption of local goods and services,” said Deputy Minister Modi. “These are the synergies envisioned by President Mnangagwa in the National Development Strategies 1 and 2, where ministries are mandated to pursue accelerated growth anchored on private sector-led development.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to cultivating a supportive environment for business growth through progressive policies and strategic partnerships. Modi added that such recognition inspires innovation and drives sustainable economic development across the city and the nation at large.

Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on the city’s historic position as Zimbabwe’s industrial heartland. She highlighted the importance of targeting sectors that promise quick wins to stimulate broader economic revival.

“Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in our journey, where the seeds of progress we plant will blossom into a future of prosperity for generations to come,” said Minister Ncube. “Bulawayo is blessed with abundant opportunities, and we must harness these to transform our economy.”

In his remarks, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavhunga, called on businesses to embrace digital transformation and invest in new technologies to remain competitive.

“We must adapt to changing market dynamics and explore new avenues for growth. I urge all companies and entrepreneurs to leverage technology to enhance operations, reach new customers, and create value in their communities,” he said.

Deputy Minister Mavhunga also pointed to the government’s ongoing efforts to promote trade and economic diversification. These include the formation of venture clusters and stronger collaboration with private investors, which are designed to generate both upstream and downstream opportunities within value chains. He added that Zimbabwe is actively engaged in regional integration efforts through SADC, with the goal of strengthening trade and industrial development.

YNC Managing Director Philimon Nyirenda underscored the spirit of resilience that has defined Bulawayo’s economic journey. He praised the honourees not only for their individual achievements but also for reflecting the broader community’s determination and drive.

“The future of our economy lies in innovation, collaboration, and a bold belief in local potential,” Nyirenda said. “Bulawayo has always been a city of pioneers. From our early days as an industrial powerhouse to our current status as a breeding ground for start-ups and social enterprises, one thing remains constant—our spirit of Ubuntu.”

The 2025 edition of the Bulawayo Business Awards not only celebrated excellence but also reaffirmed the city’s role in Zimbabwe’s economic recovery and growth. As local businesses continue to innovate and expand, their contributions are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and prosperous future for Bulawayo and the nation.