The Matobo Rural District Council has expressed optimism that the 2026 Independence Day commemorations, scheduled for Maphisa growth point in April next year, will put the area in the national spotlight, as the local authority plans to slash service charges to attract investors.
Speaking to Southern Eye, Matobo RDC chief executive Elvis Sibanda said several investors had approached council seeking available investment opportunities.
He said following the announcement that Maphisa would host Uhuru Day celebrations, council received multiple applications from individuals seeking to construct lodges and other businesses.
“We have come up with some lay-out plans for businesses such as a medical centre whereby the investor is more than ready to start construction,” Sibanda
said.
“We also have a new filling station because there are thousands of people who will be coming to attend the celebrations. We have engaged the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority so that all those with houses they can offer as accommodation can register the properties for accommodating visitors while ensuring that they meet the standards
required.”
He said the celebrations would be an opportunity for residents to generate income, adding that small and medium enterprises would be accommodated in the programme.
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“During that period we will relax certain policies so that we are not going to be seen religiously enforcing them during the programme. Our charges will be very minimal to allow everyone who wants to go into business to do so,” Sibanda said.
“This is a period for people to take advantage and as a local authority this will boost our revenue collection because we will capitalise on the volumes of people seeking our
services.”
He urged the business community to upgrade and beautify their properties to make them more attractive.
Sibanda expressed confidence that road infrastructure in the area will be improved, noting that central government usually upgrades infrastructure in areas hosting national events.
