The 3rd Edition of the Africa Infrastructure & Built Environment Conference and Exhibition (AfriConfex 2025) officially opened yesterday at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) grounds, running concurrently with MineEntra 2025 from October 8–10.
The event, held under the theme “Smart Moves: Powering Zimbabwe’s Infrastructure Evolution,” has brought together contractors, engineers, developers, and innovators from across Africa to explore sustainable, digital, and climate-resilient infrastructure solutions.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Hon. Felix Tapiwa Mhona, officially inaugurated the conference at ZITF Hall 3, highlighting the critical role of infrastructure in national development.
“Infrastructure is a key ingredient for sustainable development. It is crucial for poverty alleviation, job creation, and economic transformation,” Hon. Mhona said.
He commended the Second Republic’s Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) initiatives for revitalising the nation’s infrastructure and driving inclusive growth.
Minister Mhona toured the exhibition stands, expressing satisfaction with the level of innovation and industry uptake on display.
In his keynote address, he outlined a visionary path for Zimbabwe’s infrastructure revolution, centred on three pillars: championing digitalisation, embedding sustainability, and fostering strategic partnerships.
“By adopting smart, green technologies and renewable energy solutions, we can create a modern, sustainable infrastructure network that meets the needs of our communities while attracting investment,” he said.
Minister Mhona underscored the Government’s focus on leveraging Zimbabwe’s geographical location to attract investment.
ZITF Board Chairman, Mr. Busisa Moyo, emphasised the strategic importance of infrastructure in achieving Vision 2030.
He highlighted landmark projects such as the Beitbridge–Harare–Chirundu Highway and Gwayi-Shangani Dam, noting their transformative impact on trade, connectivity, and water security.
Mr. Moyo further stressed that today’s infrastructure must be digital, climate-resilient, and sustainable, calling on both the public and private sectors to invest in innovative solutions that can underpin Zimbabwe’s future development.
The conference also provided a platform for knowledge exchange, business networking, and showcasing cutting-edge technologies, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s growing commitment to infrastructure-led economic growth.
Major upgrades to road networks and the modernisation of border posts are being prioritised to foster a favourable business environment and improve operational efficiency across the transport and logistics sectors.
AfriConfex 2025 is expected to continue over three days, offering delegates opportunities to engage in discussions on smart infrastructure planning, green technologies, and innovative financing models, while positioning Zimbabwe as a hub for sustainable development in Southern Africa.
