Online Reporter
Tafara Chibanda
ZIMBABWE’S young entrepreneurs are set to take centre stage at the second edition of the Zimbabwe International Youth Trade Fair & Conference (ZIYTFC), scheduled for 30 May, at the Harare International Conference Centre.
The event, spearheaded by the My Africa Child and Youth Development Organisation (MACYDO), aims to provide a platform for youth-led innovation, business networking and economic development.
Announcing the event at a press conference MACYDO CEO, Vimbai Butau, stressed the importance of investing in young people as a means to drive sustainable growth in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
“Youth are Africa’s greatest asset, yet their potential remains largely untapped due to a lack of resources, mentorship and opportunities.
“Through this conference, we aim to bridge that gap by creating an environment where young people can connect with industry leaders, investors and policymakers to turn their ideas into reality,” she said.
The 2025 edition of ZIYTFC will feature renowned international speakers, including South African entrepreneur Vusi Thembekwayo, Ambassador Dr Arikana Chihombori-Quao, Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, business strategist Kwame Opoku and Ambassador Edd Branson.
The conference will offer panel discussions on innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development, alongside exhibitions and networking sessions.
Butau said that beyond providing a platform for showcasing talent, the event is designed to foster collaboration between young innovators and established industry players.
“This is not just about conversations, it is about building meaningful partnerships that can lead to real economic impact,” she said.
She urged young entrepreneurs, students, and aspiring business leaders to take full advantage of the opportunity while calling on corporate sponsors and stakeholders to play a role in supporting youth driven economic transformation.
“The Zimbabwe International Youth Trade Fair and Conference is more than an event, it is a movement dedicated to shaping the future of Africa through its youths,” she said.
The event is expected to draw participation from government representatives, business leaders and civil society organisations, reinforcing the importance of youth empowerment in Zimbabwe’s economic agenda.
