Bulawayo Market Fair begins

Brighton Gumbo, Business Reporter
THE Bulawayo Market Fair starts today with rural and urban entrepreneurs expected to exhibit and sell their locally-made products.

The three-day event organised by Empretec Zimbabwe and its various partners seeks to create linkages between small producers and their market.

Speaking to Business Chronicle yesterday, Empretec southern region coordinator Lifneth Moyo said the fair is aimed at exposing new entrepreneurs to the business world.

She said the event will feature Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from different sectors of the economy particularly agriculture and manufacturing.

“The event is largely dominated by entrepreneurs from the rural areas especially those whose focus is more on agriculture. The farmers will be exhibiting farm produce as well as meeting new markets for their goods,” said Moyo.

“Our aim is to strengthen links between these small producers and large supermarkets, hotels, vegetable shops and restaurants.”

The fair is being held at the Large City Hall and will be officially opened by the mayor Councillor Martin Moyo.

Moyo said entrepreneurs were drawn from various parts of the Matabeleland North and South provinces.

“These have been producing their products and now we want to give them the platform to showcase and sell them,” she said.

“Our aim is to help them clinch deals with their markets as well as discuss with their customers what they want and when.”

She said other producers of carpentry products, dresses and craftwork would also showcase their works.

The Bulawayo Market Fair is the brainchild of Christian Aid in partnership with Dabane Trust, Silveira House, Empretec Zimbabwe, IRT and Zimpro.

It was launched in 2011 and has been held every year since then.