By Paul Nyathi|President Emmerson Mnangagwa has spent his first night at the Bulawayo statehouse since he took over from former President Robert Mugabe in November last year.

Mnangagwa arrived in the city on Thursday where he is scheduled to officially open the 59th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) on Friday.

He is accompanied by First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa.

Mnangagwa made a very high profile landing at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport just before 11am on Thursday. He was welcomed by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Angeline Masuku, Home Affairs and Culture Minister Obert Mpofu, Midlands Provincial Affairs Minister Owen Ncube, Zanu-PF Bulawayo provincial chairperson Callistus Ndlovu, senior government and Zanu PF officials and service chiefs.

After his arrival, President Mnangagwa had a brief interaction with thousands of Zanu-PF supporters who had thronged the airport to welcome him.

This is the first time President Mnangagwa officiates at the ZITF as the Head of State following the resignation of former President Mr Robert Mugabe last year.

Running under the theme: “Sustainable Industrial Development – Inclusive, Competitive, and Collaborative,” the international expo kicked off on Tuesday.

A total of 18 countries are being represented this year, including the United Arab Emirates, a first timer.  Local participation has also increased. Up to 500 direct exhibitors are participating, about 40 percent higher than last year’s closing total of 356 direct exhibitors, and 30 percent higher than the booking situation at the same time last year.