The Local Government and Public Works Ministry, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched training workshops to strengthen local authorities’ engagement with the African Continental Free Trade Area. This initiative aims to boost intra-African trade, stimulate growth, and foster development.
The three-day workshop, which started yesterday in Bulawayo, included 46 local authorities out of 92. The remaining authorities will attend a similar workshop next week.
Elina Karwi, director of strategic policy planning, monitoring, and evaluation at the ministry, emphasized the importance of equipping local authorities with skills to foster community growth. “The workshop aims to provide local authorities with tools to develop and promote trade and investment from the region. They will also be able to work with business communities to grow local economies,” she said.
Karwi highlighted the crucial role of local authorities as the third tier of government and their close interaction with citizens. “Local authorities are key agents of economic development within their regions. They interact with citizens daily and understand their needs,” she added.
UNDP program analyst Wadzanai Madombwe echoed these sentiments, stating that local authorities are expected to lead economic development in their areas. “The Constitution of Zimbabwe clearly outlines that local authorities should spearhead economic development activities within their jurisdictions,” Madombwe said.
Madombwe explained that local authorities are essential players in targeting capacities and skills to interpret the free trade agreement and facilitate economic activities. “They know the business units in their jurisdictions and can mobilize, facilitate, and incentivize businesses, especially small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) led by women and youth,” she noted.
Local authorities can identify and create business trade hubs to serve as repositories for SMEs to access information and market details. The ministry emphasized the significant role of women in the country’s development and efforts to ensure their equal participation and opportunities.
This collaborative effort between the government and UNDP highlights the importance of empowering local authorities to drive economic growth. By equipping them with the necessary skills and tools, the workshops aim to enhance the capabilities of local leaders to attract investors and promote trade.
The workshops also focus on building relationships between local authorities and business communities. This cooperation is essential for creating a conducive environment for investment and economic development. Local authorities can leverage their knowledge of the community to identify potential opportunities and challenges, ensuring sustainable growth.
Moreover, the initiative underscores the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area in transforming local economies. By engaging effectively with this trade area, local authorities can tap into new markets and foster regional integration. This approach aligns with the broader goals of economic diversification and resilience.
As the workshops continue, the government and UNDP remain committed to supporting local authorities in their development efforts. This partnership aims to create a more dynamic and inclusive economy that benefits all citizens.
The training workshops in Bulawayo represent a strategic effort to empower local authorities with the skills to attract investors and promote economic growth. By fostering collaboration and leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area, the government and UNDP are paving the way for sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
Source: Newsday
