Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
CHAPLAINS of Zimbabwe have commended President Mnangagwa for providing leadership that culminated in the successful hosting of the inaugural National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives Indaba, describing the platform as a major milestone in empowering entrepreneurs and accelerating Zimbabwe’s march towards Vision 2030.
The recently held two-day indaba, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development under the leadership of Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, brought together more than 1 500 delegates, including entrepreneurs, Government officials, development partners, financial institutions, the private sector and academia to strengthen Zimbabwe’s MSME ecosystem. The event also showcased locally produced goods and promoted dialogue on improving access to finance, markets, technology and business development services.
In a statement following the indaba, Chaplains of Zimbabwe president Bishop Dr Christopher Choto said the gathering reflected the Second Republic’s commitment to creating opportunities for small businesses and cooperatives, which continue to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic transformation.
He congratulated President Mnangagwa for championing initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, innovation and inclusive economic development.
“The successful hosting of the inaugural SMEs and Cooperatives Indaba demonstrates visionary leadership and Government’s unwavering commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and creating an enabling environment for business growth,” said Bishop Choto.
“The platform brought together innovators, emerging enterprises and strategic partners from across the country, giving small businesses an opportunity to showcase their products, exchange ideas and build networks that will strengthen Zimbabwe’s economy.”
Bishop Choto said economic empowerment should be supported by programmes that also nurture the well-being of entrepreneurs, employees and their families.
“Business success is not measured by financial returns alone. Sustainable enterprises are built on strong values, resilient leadership and the emotional, spiritual and relational well-being of the people behind them,” he said.
“As Chaplains of Zimbabwe, we stand ready to complement Government efforts by walking alongside entrepreneurs, business owners and workers, providing counselling, mentorship and spiritual support that helps enterprises thrive even during challenging times.”
He said resilient businesses were essential for creating employment, reducing poverty and uplifting communities.
“Our mission is to support enterprises at every stage of their journey because healthy businesses create healthy communities. By investing in people as much as profits, we can contribute meaningfully towards the realisation of Vision 2030 and the creation of a prosperous Zimbabwe where no one and no place is left behind,” said Bishop Choto.
The inaugural National MSMEs and Cooperatives Indaba was held under the theme, “Towards Vision 2030: Building an Enabling Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Ecosystem.” Government says the sector contributes more than 60 percent of Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product and remains central to employment creation, industrialisation and inclusive economic growth.
