Matabeleland South’s mining hub of Filabusi came alive as farmers, miners, small businesses and exhibitors converged for the Fourth Annual Insiza District Industrial Business Expo and Agricultural Show, held from September 16 to 18.
The event showcased local enterprise, built market linkages and explored investment opportunities, aligning with government efforts to position Filabusi, which was upgraded to town status in October 2024, as an engine of rural industrialisation.
Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Albert Nguluvhe said the event demonstrated devolution’s potential to transform communities beyond major urban centres.
Nguluvhe also commissioned a refuse compactor truck acquired by Insiza Rural District Council through devolution funds at a reported cost of US$122 000.
“This landmark, double-barrelled occasion demonstrates the impact of devolution on service delivery,” he said, adding it was consistent with the government’s “leaving no one and no place behind” approach.
The council previously relied on a single tractor and trailer for refuse collection, with Filabusi’s population surging from about 3 500 in 2012 to 11 000 in 2022, and projected to exceed 25 000 by 2040.
The new compactor will improve refuse collection in Filabusi and extend services to growth points including Seputa, Nkankezi and Amazon, while freeing existing equipment for road rehabilitation.
Nguluvhe urged residents, miners and businesses to complement the investment by using designated waste facilities and paying service charges.
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Turning to the expo held under the theme, “Connect, Collaborate and Grow,” he said it should translate into practical partnerships creating employment.
He challenged the event to bridge local enterprises with wider markets and connect primary producers with processors.
He called for stronger partnerships between farmers, miners, financial institutions and local government, insisting mining should be accompanied by environmental rehabilitation, local value addition and corporate social responsibility.
Ward 23 businesswoman and miner Sikhanyisiwe Nkomo contributed US$500 towards preparations, purchased products from exhibitors and pledged transport assistance to three farmer exhibitors, plus support for an insulated “magic cooking pot” exhibitor.
“The Insiza district expo is very organised. I am so happy to see hardworking black men and women using their hands to toil for their families,” Nkomo said.
The long-term test remains whether the expo translates connections into contracts, investment and sustainable businesses.
