Zim News Blog -NEWS NETWORK

Herald Correspondent

In the modern era, global cities like Dubai, Singapore, and Silicon Valley have become the epitome of luxury tourism, technological advancement, and international connectivity.

As these cities continue to evolve, Zimbabwe is making an audacious bid with its ambitious project: Zim Cyber City (ZCC). However, ZCC is more than just another smart city on the blueprints; it’s a project aiming to be a multifaceted hub that could revolutionise Zimbabwe’s role in the global community.

“In an increasingly connected world, ZCC represents Zimbabwe’s step into the future. It’s not just about building another city; it’s about creating a hub for innovation, sustainability, and global connectivity,” says Ms Tendayi Hlupho-Mamvura, CEO of ZGI, the local partner in developing ZCC.

The mixed land-use paradigm: A game-changer high-class housing

One of the central pillars upon which ZCC is being built is the provision of high-class, sustainable housing. The city’s master plan includes smart homes with cutting-edge, light-gauge steel technology.

These homes are designed to meet global standards of luxury and sustainability, akin to the sumptuous residences in international cities like Dubai.

“High-class housing is not just about luxury; it’s about integrating sustainability into everyday living. In ZCC, we’re looking at not only comfortable, but also eco-friendly homes, setting a new standard for residential living in Zimbabwe,” remarks Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

World-class amenities

Beyond housing, ZCC promises to integrate a plethora of world-class amenities. From state-of-the-art fitness centres to lush green parks and recreational spaces, the city aims to offer a comprehensive lifestyle package that parallels what one might find in metropolises like New York or Tokyo.

“The amenities we’re planning aren’t just add-ons; they’re integral to the lifestyle we envision for ZCC. From health to leisure, we’re looking at creating an environment that enriches life in multiple dimensions,” says Ms. Hlupho-Mamvura.

Attracting tech companies

One of the most distinguishing features of ZCC’s mixed land use is the provision for innovation zones. These zones are meticulously designed to attract a blend of tech startups and established giants, creating an ecosystem fostering innovation and technological advancement.

“Technology is the cornerstone of modern development. By creating zones specifically designed to attract tech companies, we’re not just building a city; we’re building the future,” states Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Overcoming infrastructure challenges: A new blueprint for Zim water supply

Zimbabwe has faced challenges in ensuring a reliable water supply for its citizens. ZCC is deliberately addressing this issue by incorporating state-of-the-art water management systems and water-efficient technologies. The city plans to utilise smart grids to manage water supply efficiently and aims to integrate water recycling systems to ensure sustainability.

“When we talk about water supply in ZCC, we’re looking at creating a model that can be replicated across Zimbabwe. We’re investing in technologies that assure a constant water supply and make efficient use of this precious resource,” says Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Electricity and Renewable Energy

Electricity supply is another challenge Zimbabwe faces, with frequent power outages affecting quality of life and business operations. ZCC is taking robust measures to ensure a reliable electricity supply, focusing on renewable energy.

“Reliable electricity supply is not just about convenience; it’s necessary for attracting global businesses. That’s why we’re focusing on renewable energy options that are sustainable and reliable,” Ms Hlupho-Mamvura emphasises.

Creating a hub for global business connectivity digital infrastructure

In an era where digital connectivity is the backbone of global business, ZCC ensures it has the infrastructure to support a digitally connected global business community. The plan includes state-of-the-art data centres and high-speed internet connectivity to ensure seamless communication and business operations.

“Digital connectivity is non-negotiable in the global business landscape. In ZCC, we’re investing in world-class digital infrastructure to ensure businesses can operate efficiently and compete globally,” states Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Attracting global investment

One of the long-term goals of ZCC is to serve as a magnet for global investment. By addressing the challenges of water and electricity supply and creating a business-friendly environment, ZCC aims to unlock investment into other sectors of Zimbabwe’s economy.

“Investment is not just about capital; it’s about creating ecosystems conducive to business. ZCC is designed to be such an ecosystem, and we believe it will attract global investments that will spur growth in other sectors of Zimbabwe’s economy,” Ms Hlupho-Mamvura elaborates.

The economic ripple effects multi-sectoral investment

The diverse nature of ZCC’s planned infrastructure from high-class housing to innovation hubs promises to have a ripple effect on multiple sectors. The city aims to be a catalyst that will unlock investments in technology and real estate, healthcare, education, and even agriculture.

“ZCC is more than a city; it’s an economic catalyst. The infrastructure we are building aims to spur growth in diverse sectors. We’re not just looking at the present but at how ZCC can be the cornerstone for Zimbabwe’s future development,” says Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Job creation

One of the most direct economic impacts of ZCC will be job creation. The influx of tech companies and global brands will require a skilled workforce, providing employment opportunities for locals and potentially reversing the brain drain Zimbabwe has experienced.

“Job creation is one of our key focus areas. We want ZCC to be a place where Zimbabweans can find high-quality jobs that provide a livelihood and fulfil career aspirations,” Ms Hlupho-Mamvura adds.

An innovation in retail experience duty-free shopping and global brands

One standout feature planned for ZCC is on-land duty-free shopping, a first for Africa. This shopping experience will attract tourists and offer residents access to global brands at competitive prices.

“Duty-free shopping is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a strategic economic move. By bringing global brands into ZCC, we’re setting the stage for a unique retail environment that benefits everyone,” notes Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Connecting Zimbabwe to the global community multicultural community

The high-class housing, world-class amenities, and global businesses are expected to attract a diverse population, creating a multicultural community. This diversity will serve as a bridge, connecting Zimbabwe to different parts of the world.

“ZCC will be a melting pot of cultures. This multicultural environment won’t just enrich our social fabric; it will strengthen our global connections, making Zimbabwe a true participant in the global community,” Ms Hlupho-Mamvura elaborates.

Conclusion and future aspirations transformative potential

ZCC is not just an ambitious urban project; it’s a vision for Zimbabwe’s future in global connectivity and technological advancement. By addressing critical infrastructure challenges, attracting international investment, and fostering a multicultural community, ZCC has the potential to be a transformative force in Zimbabwe’s future.

“As we build ZCC, we’re keenly aware that we’re not just constructing buildings and roads but laying the foundation for Zimbabwe’s future.

“Every brick we lay, every policy we implement is a step towards making Zimbabwe a key player in the global community,” says Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Challenges Ahead

While the vision is grand and the plans are meticulously laid out, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, from regulatory approvals to the actualisation of advanced technologies.

How ZCC navigates these challenges will be pivotal to its success and role as a model for other African cities.

“Challenges are inevitable, but they’re also opportunities for innovation and growth. We’re committed to overcoming these hurdles and are working with the various regulatory authorities to actualise the ZCC vision,” assures Ms Hlupho-Mamvura.

Legacy

If successful, ZCC could leave a lasting legacy, setting new standards in sustainable development, technological innovation, and global business connectivity. It could serve as a blueprint for future cities in Zimbabwe, Africa, and the world.

“ZCC is more than a project; it’s a legacy we’re building. A legacy of innovation, sustainability, and Zimbabwe that is intricately connected to the global community,” Ms Hlupho-Mamvura concludes.

Lovemore Chikova Development Dialogue

The official handover of the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden yesterday signalled the growing relationship between Zimbabwe and China.

The cordial relations have managed to produce tangible results through completed projects such as the new building.

The new, majestic building is all the more important as it comes on the back of the commissioning of the new Hwange 7 and 8 power generation units recently at Hwange Thermal Power Station.

The power units were done with the aid of China.

The timing of the handing over of the New Parliament Building, which was done yesterday, is apt, as it came just a day after the country marked the SADC Anti-Sanctions Day on Wednesday.

The New Parliament Building came as a result of Zimbabwe’s deliberate Look East Policy that was formulated out of the realisation that with illegal sanctions from Western countries in place, the country had to search for alternative partners for its development.

This sanction-busting measure has indeed worked and the result can be seen through such complete projects as the New Parliament Building.

What this shows is that Western countries are not entirely the start and end of partnerships in development, as there are now alternatives which developing countries can cooperate with.

In fact, there are far too many alternatives in other parts of the globe that actually do much better compared to relationships born out of neo-colonialism.

This is why cooperation between Zimbabwe and other progressive countries is important in the face of the illegal sanctions imposed by the West.

The New Parliament Building symbolises the growing relations between Zimbabwe and China, which have grown from mainly being political to becoming economic and developmental in recent years.

The new building is another milestone in this growing relationship which is based on win-win cooperation and mutual benefit.

The New Parliament Building is one of the developmental achievements of the New Dispensation that underlines the positive approach to development being pushed by President Mnangagwa.

The new complex, built as a gift from China, is modern and brings convenience to parliamentarians as they carry out their national duty without bothering about being squashed.

The New Parliament Building brings with it opportunities that come with urban expansion, which opens up more space for the ever-increasing urban population in Harare.

Harare is now known to be congested, both by human and vehicular traffic, and the building of a new city in Mt Hampden will lessen this burden as people and businesses relocate.

The new city around the New Parliament Building will come with fresh infrastructure, enhancing the ease of doing business and attracting more investors.

The New Parliament Building was constructed by Shanghai Construction Group and sits on an area of 50,000m2.

It will comfortably accommodate joint sittings of the Senate and the National Assembly when necessary, compared to the old Parliament Building in the city centre which had become too small.

The New Parliament Building is just one of the developmental projects that have ensured Zimbabwe continues to progress despite the illegal sanctions imposed by the West.

As pointed out earlier, the expansion of Hwange Thermal Power Station is expected to improve Zimbabwe’s drive towards industrialisation.

Electricity is necessary to power industries and help modernise sectors such as agriculture that have been affected by sanctions.

Apart from working on Hwange Thermal Power Station, Chinese firm SinoHdyro also expanded Kariba South Power Station.

The Hwange expansion added more than 600MW to the national grid, while Kariba South had 300MW.

The pharmaceutical hub built by the Chinese in Southerton was officially opened recently, adding efficiency in the handling and storage of medicines.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport was expanded to international standards by Chinese company Jiangsu International Corporation, and can now handle more than six million travellers per year, up from two million.

The new airport now boasts of modern facilities that are a joy to air passengers.

A lot of airlines are now being attracted to Zimbabwe, with the big ones like Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways and Kenyan Airways now landing there.

Another mega project completed by the Chinese is the Victoria Falls International Airport that was upgraded to international standards and can now accommodate wide planes. This has improved tourist arrivals to the major tourism hub for Zimbabwe as airlines can now fly directly to the destination.

With such international airlines as Eurowings now flying to Victoria Falls, there is no doubt that Zimbabwe’s tourism sector will continue to expand.

Another project brought by China is the expansion of national fibre optic broadband aimed at improving connectivity in the information communication technology sector.

But is it the handing over of the New Parliament Building yesterday which has become the latest step in the cooperation between Zimbabwe and China.

The new building is significant in reminding Zimbabweans that progress can still be made in the face of the illegal sanctions.

It is important to point out what exactly was handed over to President Mnangagwa yesterday and here are the major highlights of the new building:

• The building is located in Mount Hampden, about 18km north-west of Harare along Old Mazowe Road and sits on an area of 50,000m2.
• It is a six-storey circular structure sitting on a 70-metre platform above the picturesque surrounding area.
• It has four pillars at the top of which eight Zimbabwe birds are perched.
• The project was made possible by a grant from the government of the People’s Republic of China through China-Aid.
• Feasibility studies were carried out by the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design Company Limited in 2015.
• It was designed by China SIPPR Engineering Group and constructed by Shanghai Construction Group.
• There are four floors on the Parliament side and an adjacent six-storey office building.
• The building has a Chamber House containing the 350-seat National Assembly and 100-seat Senate.
• A 108-seat gallery overlooks the National Assembly, with an 84-seat gallery overlooking the Senate.
• The building has 24 interpreters’ rooms for both the National Assembly and the Senate; 12 for each House, which are linked to the public address system.
• There are three bridges that link the Chamber House to the office building on each of the floors from the first, second and third, making them a total of nine.
• The building hosts two spacious and exquisitely furnished special committee rooms.
• It has 15 committee rooms, some that can host 30 people, while others can take 44.
• There are 600 well-furnished rooms — some for service areas, directors’ offices and VIP offices.
• There are bar areas, a staff canteen, a dining hall, library, storerooms, server rooms and public receptions on each floor.
• There is a press studio and conference room and a multi-purpose hall
• The parking area can accommodate 800 vehicles.
• At least 135 Chinese engineers and 350 locals worked on the building

Business Reporter

Anglo American Platinum (Amplats), the world’s largest primary producer of platinum, says it remains on track to deliver its 2023 production target of 250 000 ounces, with a strong focus on operational resilience.

The group’s metal-in-concentrate (M&C) platinum group metals (PGM) guidance for 2023 is 3,6–4,0 million PGM ounces, and refined PGM production guidance is 3,6–4,0 million PGM ounces.

In Zimbabwe, the South African miner owns the Unki Platinum Mine and a smelter. In its production update for the quarter to September 2023, the group said production at Unki is on target to meet 250 000 ounces by year-end.

Platinum is Zimbabwe’s second largest export earner after gold. Together, the two minerals account for more than 50 percent of exports generated by the entire mining sector and over 75 percent of total earnings for the country.

“We remain on track to deliver our 2023 guidance, with a strong focus on operational resilience in the last quarter through safe and sustainable operations,” said Mr Craig Miller, the Amplats chief executive.

He added that the group is also on track to meet unit cost guidance per PGM ounce produced, which is anticipated to be at the upper end of the range considering foreign exchange rate volatility, load curtailment, and continued inflationary pressure.

In its second-quarter production update, Amplats projected PGM production at Unki to reach 250 000 PGM ounces in 2023, up from 232,100 ounces in 2022, largely driven by the completed debottlenecking project.

The debottleneck project, which was completed in 2021, was done at a cost of US$48 million, with the expansion targeted to increase throughput capacity.

Unki, 100 percent owned by Anglo Platinum America, has its operations on the Great Dyke in Zimbabwe, 60km southeast of Gweru.

The mine is among the country’s PGM-producing companies, which include Zimplats and Mimosa. The companies are currently engaged in different stages of expansion, with investments worth over US$4 billion.

The mining sector is considered the country’s top foreign currency earner, and the government is targeting a US$12 billion mining industry by 2023.

However, PGM production at Unki for the quarter under review marginally increased 1 percent to 182 000 ounces’ (oz) year on year to September 2023, compared to 179 500 ounces in 2022.

For the quarter under review, PGM production reached 60300 oz, a 1 percent increase compared to the third quarter’s 59900 ounces in 2022.

Total quarterly platinum production at the mine increased by 2 percent to 27300 oz, compared to 26.8 percent in the comparable period in 2022.

Tonnes milled at Unki during the quarter under review were 3 percent lower at 615 000 tones compared to 650 000 tones during the same quarter in 2022.

Meanwhile, overall Amplats refined platinum group metal output declined 9 percent during the third quarter due to disrupted water supplies to its processing facilities and lower concentrate production.

Amplats, the world’s biggest platinum miner by value, produced 909,700 ounces of refined PGMs in the three months to Sept. 30, compared to 994,800 ounces during the same period last year. In the quarterly update, Amplats said an unplanned water stoppage at Amplats’ processing operations in Rustenburg disrupted operations for five working days, and this impacted the production of 54,000 ounces of refined PGMs and 26,000 ounces of metal concentrate.

Mine PGM output declined 2 percent compared to the same period last year, mainly due to lower grades at Mogalakwena and poor ground conditions at Amandelbult, Amplats’ two largest mines.

The miner said power cuts in South Africa, which hit production during the first half of the year, had minimal impact during the third quarter.

Tadious Manyepo Sports Reporter

THE Heart Stadium under construction at the Yadah Hotel in Waterfalls is almost complete with the commissioning by the Castle Lager Premiership side, Yadah FC, scheduled to take place in a week’s time.

The 5000-seater facility has been under construction for the past two months and should be commissioned this year, it will rank as the fastest stadium ever to be built in this country.

Ngezi Platinum’s Baobab Stadium currently holds the record having been readied inside just six months back in 2016.

But with most of the critical areas including a lush-green suspended pitch, shedded grandstands installed with bucket seats and CAF standard change-rooms all in place, the Heart Stadium could be on its way to breaking new grounds.

Already experts and key officials including the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Kirsty Coventry have since toured the venue and they have all supplied positive feedback. In an interview yesterday, Prophet Walter Magaya, who is behind this project, said workers have been working around the clock to ensure the quick completion of the stadium.

“We started the construction of this stadium about eight weeks ago and I am very happy with the progress,” said Magaya.

“We are almost there and we are just trying to make sure that we tick all the boxes.

“Every step that we have taken has been guided by the experts in that field.

“Workers have been working every minute on shifts and we are happy with what we have done so far.

“We are expecting to have the stadium commissioned on the 5th of November which is next week.

“That is my wish and we are working hard to try and accomplish that.

“I would like to thank every stakeholder who has been handy in the construction of this stadium.

“You know I love football and I am doing this for football not myself. I am not doing this for anyone else but my country”. The Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries Church founder said he is not worried even if his team Yadah gets relegated from the top-flight.

“I love Yadah, yes and the hope is they won’t get relegated but if the team is demoted, that’s part of football.

“We are not building this stadium for Yadah only. We are doing it for football, for the country,” he said.

“That is why we have made sure all the necessary technicalities which CAF looks at are addressed.

We hope to see even the teams representing the country in continental matches being able to play at the Heart Stadium.

“We hope even the Warriors can play at the Heart Stadium”.

Although the stadium will be accommodating 5 000 people at first, plans are that it will be subsequently expanded to a 20 000-seater venue.