Online Reporter
THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) opened with great enthusiasm in Bulawayo yesterday, attracting a dynamic mix of local and international exhibitors who expressed optimism about unlocking significant business opportunities.
This year’s Sapphire Edition is running under the theme: “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape,” a message that resonates deeply with Zimbabwe’s renewed push to revitalise its manufacturing base, expand value chains and drive export-led growth.
The ZITF continues to hold strategic national importance, as it aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader goals of industrialisation, economic diversification, and positioning itself competitively within the regional and global economy.
As one of Southern Africa’s premier trade showcases, ZITF has become a critical platform for showcasing investment potential, facilitating business-to-business linkages, and enhancing access to regional and global markets.
The 2025 ZITF serves not only as a major economic and trade exhibition, but as a bold expression of Zimbabwe’s industrialisation drive, its commitment to local production and regional integration, and its ambition to emerge as a manufacturing and trade powerhouse in Africa.
Our reporters and photographers are on the ground to give us live updates from the trade showcase.
ZITF 2025 to showcase Zimbabwe’s industrial capabilities
Industry and Commerce Minister, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, speaking to Zimpapers Business Hub at the exhibition park, said exhibitors were ready to showcase a broad range of products that reflect the country’s industrial potential. He stressed that the theme reflects Zimbabwe’s economic priorities.
“We can only achieve economic growth when we focus more on industrialisation. President Mnangagwa has called for us to develop our country, and it’s through industrialisation that we can create meaningful jobs and achieve economic growth. That’s why we have dedicated this edition to industrialisation,” said Minister Ndlovu.
He added that 2025 marks a pivotal moment, being the final year of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), and the outcomes of this year’s fair will help lay the foundation for NDS2, which will be firmly anchored in accelerating industrial growth.
“It will help us to take stock of what has happened and also give us a firm foundation as we build NDS2,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s industrialisation drive, guided by the Government’s Vision 2030 and NDS framework, seeks to rebuild the country’s productive capacity, modernise factories, encourage innovation and support local manufacturing for both domestic use and export. Minister Ndlovu also praised the private sector’s growing engagement at ZITF, a vital ingredient in Zimbabwe’s industrial ambitions.
“I am happy that the private sector has taken heed of this. In the early 2000s, sanctions reduced participation, and Government came in to fill the gap. But the President has said we cannot complain about sanctions forever; let us work.
“We want the private sector to tell the story of our economic development. We agreed last year that the 2025 edition should be more private sector-driven, and we are happy with the progress. We will continue encouraging both domestic and foreign private sector participation going forward.”
This year, 28 countries are exhibiting, a strong signal of confidence in Zimbabwe’s economic prospects. Minister Ndlovu attributed the increase to intensified economic diplomacy and proactive global marketing by the ZITF Company.
ZITF Innovators Forum kicks off
The first day of the ZITF Innovators Forum has begun at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
The event is taking place at the Bulawayo Agricultural Society Pavilion and is running under the theme, “Catalyzing Industrial Growth Through Collaborative Innovation.”
The forum has speakers from the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, SIRDC, NUST, ZB Bank, POTRAZ and IDCZ.
Tuesday’s programme is mainly focusing on Pitch Competition and the Hackathon Challenge Announcement and Problem Solving guidelines.
Students from various institutions are participating in the programme.
Zimbabwe, India explore new business opportunities
Deputy Minister of Industry Trade and Commerce, Raj Modi has arrived for the Zimbabwe India Business session at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.
He is joined by the CEO of United Refineries and ZITF Board Chairman Mr Busisa Moyo, ZITF CEO Mr Nicholas Ndebele and the delegation from India.
India has an investment of about US$500 million in Zimbabwe, with top investment sectors being agro processing, pharmaceuticals and beverages.
They note that at present the number of Zimbabweans of Indian origin, who are predominantly from the State of Gujarat is estimated at 9000.
This community is mainly engaged in retail trade.
10 pedigree, 43 fat stock breeds register for BAS
TEN pedigree and 43 fat stock breeds have registered for the Bulawayo Agricultural Show (BAS) which runs concurrently with the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair that kicked off on Monday.
Different pedigree breeds, ranging from Brahman, Nkone to Simmental are on display at the BAS.
The breeds are from individual farmers and agricultural institutions.
The Bulawayo Agricultural Show has proven to be a hit with both exhibitors and the public drawing large crowds daily.
BAS chairman Mr Obert Chinhamo said farmers have brought in livestock from their respective farms and are raring to go.
Mbalabala-based Brahman breeder Mr Jairos Mahlangu said he brought eight cattle consisting of two bulls, heifers and a calf.
“All the Brahmas are first time entries at the Buawayo Agricultural Show and we are confident they will do well against the other competing breeds.
“They range from a two month old calf to a bull that is slightly over two years old and a number of young heifers,” said Mr Mahlangu.
Chinese companies exhibit mining and energy sectors technologies
Several Chinese companies are exhibiting mining and energy sector technologies at the 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) 2025.
This is in line with this year’s theme: “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape”, which has attracted exhibitors from across Zimbabwe, the region, and the globe.
In an interview, Mr Edwin Lyu-Yantai from Yantai Jinpeng Mining Machinery Company Limited said they were showcasing some of their mining solution technologies.
“We have a number of mining sector technologies that include crushers, magnetic concentration, automatic control, conveyors, among other things. We have worked with a number of mining companies in Zimbabwe and we are targeting to broaden our clientele here at ZITF 2025 so that they can procure our world-class products we also manufacture customised specialised equipment and machinery,” he said.
Mr Noko Mutize, the marketing manager of Sino Blast Mining Explosives said they were showcasing safe mining products.
“Mining is one of the critical sectors here in Zimbabwe and responsible mining is critical. We have a number of products that promote environmentally friendly mining practices, we are capitalising on ZITF 2025 to showcase these products to the mining sector,” he said.
Ms Li Wen from Xiangwei Pipe said they were one of the biggest pipe manufacturers in China and they were providing their services across the globe.
“We are already supplying our products here in Zimbabwe mainly for irrigation schemes and even for some mining initiatives. We are here at ZITF 2025 to strike business deals with a number of companies for our pvc pipes and water pipes accessories,” she said.
Mr Abby Han from Shandong Xinhai Mining Technology and Equipment said they have done projects for some of the biggest mining companies in the country and they were working on providing their products and services to more mines in Zimbabwe.
“As one of the leaders of mineral processing industry in the world, we are to engage and provide more mine companies with technical support for mineral processing service, aiming at customising professional mineral processing process for each mine and help customers to maximise mineral processing,” he said.
Rainbow Solar sales and marketing manager, Mr Edward Matimba said they were showcasing their new product, genix green solar batteries.
“We are witnessing manufacturing of solar panels and lithium batteries in order to avert crippling power outages while embracing clean renewable energy. Our are lithium batteries offer several advantages, including high energy density, longer lifespans, faster charging, and a lower weight compared to traditional batteries,” he said.
Agriculture ministry showcases new technologies, innovations to boost value chains
THE Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development has stressed the need to embrace new technologies, innovations and mechanisations to accelerate the sector’s transformation as well as revitalising economic value chains.
These are part of its comprehensive plans and key exhibitions expected to drive results at the ongoing 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo.
The premier trade showcase kicked off on a higher note on Monday and will end on Saturday.
“Through exhibitors drawn from different directorates, the ministry will showcase agriculture technologies, innovations, mechanised equipment, irrigation and systems, and all products related to agriculture and value addition,” said the ministry in its brief shared with the media.
“The ministry will also showcase the demonstrations of new technologies and agriculture practices, innovation and
Ideas, with clients as well as its policies, programmes and projects.”
Raising awareness on agriculture value chains, commodity markets, investment opportunities are also at the core of the ministry’s programmes and master plan.
As the ZITF progresses, the ministry has said it will strongly leverage on networking opportunities to exchange ideas, build strategic and sustainable trade, investment, and marketing partnerships.
As part of expected results after ZITF, the ministry hopes to have forged alliances, partnerships as well as business linkages.
Delta, Ingwebu’s sports sponsorships elevate ZITF experience, says Dep Min Mnangagwa
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) isn’t just about commerce and industry—it’s also a stage for thrilling sporting spectacles that captivate crowds and showcase local talent.
This year, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Tongai Mnangagwa, has singled out beverage giants Delta Beverages and Ingwebu Breweries for their pivotal roles in sustaining two of the event’s most electrifying attractions: the 4-minute mile race and tug-of-war competitions.
In a statement, Deputy Minister Mnangagwa lauded the companies for their unwavering commitment to sports development, which he said enhances the ZITF’s appeal as a must-attend event on Zimbabwe’s cultural and economic calendar.
Delta Beverages, a longstanding sponsor of athletics in Zimbabwe, has once again thrown its weight behind the 4-minute mile challenge —a grueling test of speed and endurance that harks back to the legendary feats of runners like Roger Bannister. The race, a highlight at ZITF, draws elite athletes and enthusiastic spectators, adding a pulse of adrenaline to the trade fair’s lineup.
“The 4-minute mile is more than just a race; it’s a symbol of pushing boundaries,” Hon. Mnangagwa said.
“Delta’s support ensures that this event remains a marquee attraction, inspiring young athletes and entertaining crowds.”
Meanwhile, Ingwebu Breweries, the Bulawayo-based traditional beer manufacturer, continues to champion tug-of-war, a sport deeply rooted in Zimbabwean communal culture. The raw, visceral contest of strength between rival teams has become a fan favorite at ZITF, blending competition with nostalgia.
“Tug-of-war is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of teamwork, heritage, and sheer determination,” Deputy Minister Mnangagwa remarked. “Ingwebu’s dedication to preserving and promoting this sport ensures that it remains a cornerstone of our national exhibitions.”
The Deputy Tourism Minister emphasised that such sponsorships are vital in bridging commerce, encouraging sports tourism and community engagement, helping to position ZITF as a multifaceted event that goes beyond trade.
“When companies like Delta and Ingwebu invest in sports, they’re not just funding events—they’re fostering national pride, creating unforgettable experiences, and driving sports and domestic tourism,” he said.
“Their contributions amplify the ZITF’s status as a premier showcase of Zimbabwean talent and enterprise.”
Boost for Hwange Coal mining as groundbreaking coal tar innovation is unveiled
THE Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, in partnership with the Research Council of Zimbabwe, has unveiled a pioneering project that is set to revolutionise road construction and rehabilitation towards more sustainable and cheaper means.
Dubbed the Coal Tar Project, the innovation harnesses locally sourced materials to produce fiber-modified tar, offering a cost-effective, durable and eco-friendly alternative to imported road binders.
Speaking during the Inaugural Research for Sustainable Industrialisation and Economic Development Indaba held at ZITF on Wednesday, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development Chief Research and Testing Officer and Principal Investigator of the project Mr Actor Zonde said the initiative leverages crude tar from Hwange coking ovens and chrysotile fibers recycled from Shabanie-Mashava mines.
He said a ZIMCHEM industrial plant in Redcliff with a monthly production capacity of 150 tonnes is already operational, supplying the Department of Roads for critical projects such as the ongoing Kwekwe-Gokwe road reseal.
Watch: Little smiles, big fun: ZITF delivers on kids’ holiday thrills
While the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is known as a hub for business and innovation, it is also fast becoming one of the most anticipated fun-filled outings for kids during the April holidays.
The latest addition to the entertainment line-up, adding to the carnival vibe, is Cybertrust Kids Events, a mobile leisure-ride centre setting up right across the ZITF showgrounds. Its director, Godfrey Gwangwara, said the setup will feature kiddie train rides, water-based fun, and various leisure activities designed especially for the little ones.
“We’re inviting parents to bring their children out to enjoy a safe and entertaining space,” Gwangwara said.
Their kid-friendly zone will be open from April 24 to 26, aligning with the public days of the ZITF buzz.
A ZITF staple, Luna Park Family Amusement Park, rolled into Bulawayo at the start of the month and is offering an unforgettable experience for young thrill-seekers. From adrenaline-pumping quad bike rides to bouncy trampolines, water walker adventures, and classic toffee apples, the park promises endless excitement for families visiting the trade fair.
ZITF has long been a space for business networking and cultural exchange, but it is also proving to be a time where families can bond, laugh, and make lasting memories. With fun zones like these, the trade fair truly becomes an all-ages affair, where kids can play while adults explore the exhibitions.
VPs Mohadi, Chiwenga commend top-notch ZITF exhibition stands
VICE-PRESIDENTS Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi yesterday toured exhibition stands at the ongoing Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), commending both local and international exhibitors for their innovation and contributions to the country’s economic growth agenda.
Accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, senior Government officials, and ZITF Company board members, the Vice-Presidents toured several key exhibition halls at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre, engaging with participants across diverse sectors including mining, agriculture, manufacturing, health, and information and communication technologies (ICT).
They also interacted with youth innovators and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), encouraging them to scale up production, commercialise their innovations, and tap into regional and continental markets.
Speaking after the tour, Vice-President Chiwenga called on industry players to embrace innovation from local universities and technical colleges, urging stronger partnerships between academia and business.
“What I have seen is what we are advocating. We want our institutions to get involved with students who are in these universities across the country and use their talents,” he said.
“We have seen quite a lot of innovative ideas, some which are at the initial stage, but others which are already at the final stage and almost ready for commercialisation.”
Vice-President Chiwenga emphasised that the private sector should actively support research and development, rather than leaving the responsibility solely to the Government.
“As I said at the business forum on Wednesday, it’s time for the private sector to come on board. The Government cannot do it alone. Industry must invest in innovation in order to benefit from the resulting products and solutions,” he said.
Vice-President Chiwenga toured several exhibition stands including those of the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), the Industrial Development Corporation, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care, which showcased its air ambulance services operated by Helidrive.
He also visited the Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC), which recently introduced the cluster-based approach to research and development, a strategic initiative that brings together scientists and engineers to jointly tackle R&D projects and play a pivotal role in promoting new research and innovation.
At Hall 3, where most tertiary institutions, including the Zimbabwe National Defence University, are exhibiting, the Vice-President was impressed by a range of technology-driven projects.
Vice-President Mohadi toured exhibition stands from selected countries, including Japan, China, the European Union, the United States of America, Botswana, and the United Kingdom.
He concluded his visit at the ruling ZANU–PF stand in Hall 5, where the party and several aligned SMEs are showcasing their contributions to the national development agenda.
He later proceeded to the agriculture exhibition section, before wrapping up his tour at the Office of the President and Cabinet stand, where Chief Director for Presidential Communications, Dr Sadiki Maeresera, demonstrated a range of technology-driven innovations aimed at enhancing Government efficiency.
This year’s ZITF runs under the theme: “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape.” It has attracted exhibitors from across Zimbabwe, the region, and the globe.
ZITF nightlife: Bulawayo lights up as business meets entertainment
AS the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) swings into full gear, Bulawayo is not only abuzz with business deals and exhibitions but also with vibrant nightlife events, turning the city into a hub of entertainment and cultural celebration.
With gates now open to the public, the ZITF weekend promises a fusion of commerce and revelry, as event organisers and local nightspots have curated a thrilling line-up of after-hours entertainment to cap off each day’s business engagements.
Leading the weekend festivities is the much-anticipated Bulawayo Shutdown, set for Saturday night. Organised by Harris Entertainment, this event has long earned its reputation as the unofficial ZITF closing party and this year is no exception.
The Shutdown boasts a star-studded line-up, featuring some of South Africa’s top performers, including Emtee, Nasty C, DJ Tira and Zee Nxumalo. Local powerhouses Oriyano, Killer T, Enzo Ishall, Mzoe7 and Asaph, alongside top DJs Tamuka and Prince Eskhosini, are set to ignite the stage, ensuring an electrifying atmosphere for both locals and international visitors.
For those seeking a nostalgic escape, BAC Leisure will host an Old School Party tonight, headlined by none other than the kings of retro sound, Tony Friday and Kimble Rogers. They will be joined by celebrated DJs Offswag, Etherton B, DJ Masaccre and DJ Smith, spinning timeless anthems from R&B to 90s hip-hop and early 2000s dancehall. This will be the perfect retreat for mature revellers and lovers of vintage vibes.
Bowling enthusiasts, there is good news as a new bowling venue has opened in the host city’s CBD, promising to bring fresh excitement to the city’s leisure scene. The new spot offers not only the thrill of the game but also a relaxed and inviting environment, perfect for unwinding with friends or family. Just a short walk away is Marvericks, a long-time favourite among lovers of snooker and pool. The venue has become a hub for cue sports in the city and during the ZITF period, it is welcoming a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike.
Inside the ZIEC and private venues, corporate cocktail events are in full swing, with companies hosting clients and partners in relaxed settings designed to nurture post-expo discussions and deepen business relations.
Meanwhile, students and the young at heart can look forward to the Miss Nust pageant on Sunday, a vibrant showcase of youth talent, confidence and campus culture. A dynamic DJ line-up will keep the energy high throughout the event, cementing its place as a highlight of the ZITF weekend for the student community.
The ZITF has also emerged as a vital platform for local artistes to perform, connect and grow their brands. Artistes such as Ma9ine, Asaph Afrika, Mzoe7 and Skhumz the Moonwalker have made appearances throughout the week, blending entertainment with enterprise.
Mzoe7, who was spotted networking at the fair, shared the importance of the ZITF in fostering artiste-corporate collaboration.
“This is one of the biggest ZITF events, and it’s great to host people from all over the world in our beautiful country and city. I’m busy making links with corporates and institutions, creating business relationships,and letting them know more about the brand Mzoe7,” he said.
The presence of artistes and entertainment acts at ZITF, highlights its role not only as an economic catalyst but also as a cultural melting pot. The event brings together businesses, creatives and individuals from across the globe, offering a unique blend of networking, branding and artistic expression.
As the sun sets on each busy day of trade and industry, Bulawayo’s nightlife ensures that the spirit of the ZITF continues well into the evening. With its compelling mix of business and pleasure, the 2025 ZITF is proving once again that economic activity and cultural celebration can thrive side by side, leaving visitors with not just deals, but unforgettable memories.
Battle of innovations as varsities and colleges exhibit at ZITF
FROM a ground-breaking innovation that safeguards miners against dangerous gases in mine shafts, to maximising limited spaces for food production and a product that will revolutionise refuse collection and disposal industry, colleges and universities went all out to showcase various exhibitions at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
In line with the country’s industrialisation and modernisation drive, colleges, universities and polytechnics continue to play a leading role in technological advancements through the establishment of innovation hubs.
Some of the innovation hubs are being turned into factories, thereby ensuring that ideas are turned into innovations that are ultimately put to good practical use in everyday life.
Chronicle took the time to tour various stands at the ongoing ZITF where young innovators, current and former students at universities, colleges and polytechnics, were showcasing innovations that offer solutions to challenges in the mining, agricultural and environmental sectors, among others.
At the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) stand, a Computer Science student, Tafadzwa Dexter Sigauke, was showing exhibitors a device that will change the face of artisanal and small scale mining, and safety miners.
Having realised that small scale miners plunge into mine shafts immediately after blasting, without prior knowledge of the dangers beneath the surface, he developed a device that checks for the presence of harmful gases in the deep shafts.
“The device is known as an Ypoterra Drone and when deployed in a mine shaft, records the temperature in the shafts and the presence of harmful gases that are emitted during the blasting of explosives by the miners,” he said.
“Instead of exposing themselves to very high temperatures and dangerous gases, the Ypoterra Drone records vital information and it sends to a cell phone in real time, to make informed decisions before going back into a mine shaft,” said Sigauke.
The device can go down depths of more than 300 metres vertically and in the case of tunnels that run horizontally, a drone is deployed to record the vital information.
“The drone captures pictures that will tell the miners the areas that were affected during blasting,” he added.
The young innovator said he was inspired to come up with the innovation to tackle challenges faced by artisanal and small scale miners, who do not have technologically advanced tools that can assist them in their day to day operations in search of precious minerals.
Nust Chemical Engineering student, Tanatswa Mapfumo was showcasing an innovation called “Greenloop” that aims to maximise on food production in limited spaces such as high rise residential buildings, ensuring people can still grow vegetables and do fish farming.
The innovation is a single built unit that allows for vegetable and fish farming to be done simultaneously, using the same source of water.
“This project came about after we realised that the country was facing food insecurity in some areas, so we wanted to come up with a concept that allows people to produce food even in small spaces such as residential flats, where there is no land to plant vegetables or do fish farming,” he said.
“In normal farming, a lot of water is used as well as huge pieces of land, so our design saves both water and land and allows people to even grow vegetables in closed spaces like a house. The innovation works in two ways where the waste from the fish nourishes the vegetables and the nutrients from vegetables feed the fish,” said Mapfumo.
“Schools, hospitals and other public institutions, who do not have a lot of land can use our innovation to plant vegetables and keep fish in the same design.
“Our plants go up to 50 percent faster than regular farming methods. The design uses full spectrum lights, which work in the same way as natural light and a farmer can control how long the spectrum lights stay focused on the plants for maximum vegetable production.”
The innovation does not use chemicals or fertilisers, but uses less water and very small spaces of land, thereby, it is good for the environment, added Mapfumo.
On the environmental sector, a Midlands State University (MSU) student already has her eyes set on changing the refuse collection and disposal industry before graduating, with a product that slows down the rate of decomposition of waste.
Known as the AGN Pure, Wendy Murambi described the product as “a waste drier and neutraliser” that can be used by municipalities, rural district councils and big business with lots of waste.
“Our product can be sprayed on the inside surfaces of dust bins in order to prolong the time that waste will decompose and that way, waste management is made easier for companies and households,” he said.
“We have the product in varying containers that are affordable to big businesses, municipalities and homes,” said Murambi.
Several other universities, colleges and polytechnics exhibited various innovations at the annual event.
Through the Education 5.0 model that the Second Republic, through the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development adopted, is paying dividends as evidenced by the number of innovations at ZITF.
The nation is poised to enjoy the fruits of the Government’s deliberate policies to promote a results-based education system with educational institutions of higher learning taking heed of the Government’s call to leapfrog the country’s development through science and technology.
