THE Bulawayo Publicity Association (BPA) has encouraged city residents to make use of its free services saying it has grown into an information hub in its 82 years of existence.
BY BATANAI MUTASA
BPA is an independent, nonprofit making organisation which encourages tourists and investors to come to Bulawayo.
The association’s offices near the City Hall recently received a major facelift and its website is being upgraded.
Valerie Bell, the BPA director, said the association did not limit itself to information dissemination, which is its core business.
“For example, we might not be a directory, but people usually seek us out even for phone numbers, directions and any advice. We always try our best to assist,” she said.
“But I am not happy that people are not making more use of us, we offer free publicity and would really accommodate anyone with something to advise people.”
BPA’s objectives include promoting the interests of Bulawayo, publicising tourist attractions and encouraging commercial development.
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Bell said at times they advised council on concerns raised by residents.
“People call us with various issues and we then forward their concerns to council. For example, recently people have been complaining about reckless driving by taxi operators and we told council of those concerns,” she said.
BPA has been leasing offices from the Bulawayo City Council and the building had deteriorated due to wear and tear. However, refurbishments have been made to restore its ambience.
The building was repainted and the garden area was decorated with various flower varieties.
Bell paid tribute to council for providing painters during the refurbishment.
“I should mention Paint and Allied and Tjircalle Brothers for donating paint,” she added.
“On that note over the many years the association has been in operation, it would not have done some things without the help of donors and sponsors, both in cash and kind.”
