By MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA
Her Worship Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles, the Mayor of Reading in the United Kingdom, on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on His Worship Senator David Coltart, the Mayor of Bulawayo, and the Town Clerk, Christopher Dube, in a meeting aimed at strengthening ties between the two local authorities.
Dr Mpofu-Coles expressed delight at being back home in Zimbabwe after a long absence, describing her election as the first Black female Mayor of Reading as a milestone that has become a symbol of hope, particularly for minority communities.
The meeting focused on exploring areas of possible cooperation to advance mutual development, with both parties expressing willingness to collaborate, especially in research and business development initiatives.
It was agreed that the discussions would be taken forward through formal correspondence, with the two councils committing to write letters outlining specific areas of interest and potential partnerships.
Beyond her mayoral role, Dr Mpofu-Coles is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Reading. She noted that her dual position could strategically help facilitate partnerships between the University of Reading and institutions in Bulawayo, further strengthening cooperation in research, innovation and development.
The visit is expected to lay the foundation for closer relations between Bulawayo and Reading, as both cities seek to leverage international cooperation for local development.
