adminFriday this week.
Empretec executive director Ms Sibusisiwe Bango said the organisation wanted to recognise local entrepreneurs who went into business before independence when it was still very difficult for black people to do so.
“We also want to recognise and honour Zimbabwean entrepreneurs who set up businesses post independence and have grown these businesses beyond our borders to make them inter-Africa and inter-regional businesses,” she added.
Ms Bango said the awards would also recognise the up and coming young entrepreneurs who are already showing potential for growth and internationally recognised businesses.
“Zimbabweans have always been known to be enterprising, resilient, persistent and hardworking people. This has been evident in our forefathers who against all odds persevered for survival and started enterprises in various sectors of the economy.
“Other generations have followed suit and set up businesses some of which have been recognised internationally. All this was achieved by the critical mass of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs in spite of the harsh economic environment they had to endure and operate under during the past 10 or more years,” she said.
In addition to honouring the pioneering entrepreneurs in the country, she said the objectives of the event were to mentor and encourage aspiring entrepreneurs and to motivate them to face up to the challenges of business in Zimbabwe.
“The celebrations seek to motivate the business sector to mentor and encourage aspiring entrepreneurs and to strive for success through networking.
“It also seeks to recognise the importance of entrepreneurship in the development and growth of the economy as a whole,” Ms Bango said.
leeroy
Online Reporter