Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
Matabeleland South Agricultural Show Society (MSASS) president Ms Sharon Dewa has said the Beitbridge Business Expo is a critical event that positions Beitbridge as a key platform for local growth and trade at the country’s busiest border.
The 6th edition of the Beitbridge Business Expo closed on Saturday with a record turnout, as organizers confirmed 20 new business entries that pushed total exhibitors above last year’s 117.
Officially opening the three-day event on Saturday, Ms Dewa said the Expo aligns with the government’s “Zimbabwe is open for business 24/7” mantra.
“As companies and businesses we need a collaborative approach to attract investment in Beitbridge town and this part of the country, being the face of Zimbabwe, needs to do more and attract investment. This Business Expo is part of efforts to encourage and attract investment,” she said.
She commended Expo Committee Chairperson Dr Annah Muleya and her team for their efforts and encouraged them to join the National Association of Agricultural Show Societies of Zimbabwe.
Highlighting Beitbridge’s strategic importance, Ms Dewa noted that the government had upgraded the border post to world class standards and urged businesses to invest in similar infrastructure developments in the town.
She also called for value addition in key local products such as mashonzha/amacimbi, oranges, beef and goat meat through processing plants for juice and meat products.
“More value can be realised by value addition. The business opportunities are huge, and the Government will support all those into processing,” said Ms Dewa.
She emphasised that the Expo’s theme “BEITBRIDGE 24/7” should push businesses to align services to the border’s round-the-clock operations.
Ms Dewa also made a clarion call for enterprises to establish linkages with Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and universities and cited innovation hubs at Chinhoyi University, Bindura University and Gwanda State University as models companies should tap into.
She further urged businesses to invest in the municipality’s new Central Business District to help develop Beitbridge into a world-class town and logistics hub.
“We appreciate companies exhibiting as friends of Beitbridge and friends of Zimbabwe who want to see our economy growing,” Ms Dewa said, adding that the Expo should help exhibitors build linkages and conclude deals.
Colletta Dube