A new multi-purpose conference centre has been officially opened in Gweru, adding to the growing number of modern conference and events facilities in the Midlands region.
Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Owen Ncube said the development was in line with the Second Republic’s commitment to infrastructure development and growth of the tourism and hospitality industry.
He was speaking at the commissioning of the US$90 000, 250-seater Padanga Multi-Purpose Conference Centre, established by Gweru Urban legislator Josiah Makombe and his family.
“The centre will employ chefs, waiters, security personnel, cleaners, marketers and ICT technicians while creating downstream business opportunities for transport operators, events promoters, sound technicians and farmers who supply produce,” Ncube said.
“During construction, the project employed hundreds of youths from Gweru, including engineers, bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, landscapers and painters.”
Makombe said many people travelled to Harare, Bulawayo and Kadoma to attend conferences because of limited facilities, and the new venue should fill that gap.
“We are really excited about achieving that dream, although we are not yet where we want to be. For the meantime, we are excited,” he said.
He said the family was now working on establishing accommodation facilities with an initial capacity of 20 rooms, expected to be completed by the end of the year.
- Gweru youths venture into trash economy
- Nasty Trixxx, Madiz in surprise reunion
- Diamond Berry holds Winter Affair
- Passport office contractor in row over payments
Keep Reading
“We want those coming from outside Gweru for conferences to have accommodation here as well,” Makombe said.
“By 2030, the land that we have should have at least 30 rooms of a tourism facility that meets Zimbabwe Tourism Authority standards.”
Mayor Martin Chivhoko said the project demonstrated a commitment to developing the city with modern facilities capable of attracting investors and driving economic development in Gweru and the province as a whole.
“When we talk about urban development, we often focus on roads, water and infrastructure, but today we are reminded that development is also about creating spaces where people can gather, exchange ideas, forge partnerships and build the future together,” he said.
Besides the newly established conference centre, Padanga also boasts a modern restaurant, bar and braai facilities, as well as an outdoor garden suitable for family outings.
