Bulawayo’s Vintage Daimler Steals the Show at ZITF 2025
Heritage met grandeur at the 2025 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) as the City of Bulawayo rolled out its fully restored vintage Daimler limousine, turning heads and signaling a bold statement of civic pride and historic revival.
The classic vehicle, dormant for over a decade in the basement of the city’s Rates Hall, was brought back to life through private donations.
Posting on his X handle yesterday, Mayor David Coltart said the Daimler was used to deliver the Mayoress and Town Clerk, Mr. C. Dube, to the official opening of the ZITF.
“For the first time in over a decade our vintage Daimler vehicle was used to deliver the Mayoress and Town Clerk Mr. C. Dube to the opening of the 2025 ZITF,” Coltart posted.
“This exceptionally valuable asset of the City of Bulawayo has now been restored to its full grandeur for future generations.”
He revealed that sourcing parts for the nearly 70-year-old vehicle required assistance from abroad.
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A retired Emirates Boeing 777 Captain, Chris Brittlebank a former schoolmate of the mayor helped locate the much-needed spares in the UK.
Although Mayor Coltart could not accompany the procession due to his attendance at the Presidential lunch, he emphasized the symbolic importance of the restoration project.
“Although this vehicle doesn’t provide water or jobs, its restoration is symbolic of our plan to restore all the grandeur of our city in the years ahead,” he said.
The Daimler, known for its stately design and association with royalty, has long been a symbol of prestige and British automotive excellence.
It was historically used by city mayors and visiting dignitaries, reinforcing Bulawayo’s status as Zimbabwe’s cultural and industrial hub.
Mayor Coltart’s gesture aligns with his broader vision of city renewal one that balances efficiency with dignity.
In previous public comments, he stated that he would not accept a new mayoral vehicle until the city’s urgent needs, including ambulance shortages, were addressed.
The return of the Daimler to public life adds a nostalgic yet forward-looking tone to Bulawayo’s ZITF appearance this year, underscoring the city’s determination to preserve its legacy while building a better future.
