Online Reporter
Media Mpofu, Sunday News Reporter
MORE than 40 talented innovators from different parts of the country were recently equipped with essential business skills to transform their innovative ideas into successful ventures.
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) hosted a seven-day Start Your Business (SYB) Training Programme in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Certified Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) Master Trainers and Trainers.
Held in Bulawayo, the training workshop was facilitated by the Fine Touch Development Trust.
During the closing ceremony on Friday, in a speech read on his behalf by the Universal Services Fund (USF), Postal and Courier Services deputy director, Mr Tichafa Mujuru, Potraz Director-General, Dr Gift Machengete said the innovators have distinguished themselves in competitive technology challenges and showcases.
“As incubatees of the Innovation Drive programme, they have acquired practical business skills to turn their ground-breaking ideas into thriving enterprises. Forty-five innovators have distinguished themselves in competitive technology showcases and the top five presented their business pitches,” he said.
“Over the past seven days, they have immersed themselves in an intensive learning experience that has equipped them with the knowledge, tools and strategies necessary to build and sustain successful businesses. The commitment and enthusiasm they have displayed throughout this programme are truly commendable.”
He said the focus on ethical business practices and compliance with regulations such as tax and procurement laws was also critical for the innovators.
Dr Machengete said these principles were not just regulatory requirements but essential for fostering trust, credibility and long-term sustainability in their businesses.
“By embracing these values from the outset, you are setting the stage for responsible and successful entrepreneurship. The success of your ventures will not only be measured in profits but also in the trust and confidence you build with your customers,” he said.
He said as they step forward into their entrepreneurial journey, they should remember to be innovative, ethical and resilient.
Dr Machengete reaffirmed Potraz’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote innovation and inclusivity in the business sector.
“Through the USF, we continue to ensure that resources are allocated transparently and ethically to extend services to underserved communities. I urge all of you to remain steadfast in your business aspirations, ensuring that integrity and accountability guide your actions,” he said.
He said the innovators’ road ahead may be challenging, but with resilience, innovation and strategic planning, they have the potential to build thriving businesses that contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Dr Machengete said Zimbabwe needs visionary entrepreneurs and he had no doubt that many of the 45 innovators will be among the leaders shaping the nation’s future.
One of the top five innovators who did a business pitch, Mr Frank Makeba who is the founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of Hurudza AI said they had developed an artificial intelligence (AI) contact centre to assist farmers.
“Our platform allows a farmer to log in, his or her problem via an SMS, voice or web and get an automated response. We are saying your agronomy is in the pocket, mudhumeni wako muhomwe, this is our innovation,” he said.
He said the platform also allows a farmer to interact with the contact centre using their local language.
Mr Makeba said 60 percent of the Zimbabwean population was employed in the agriculture sector and there were over 1,5 million farmers in the country.
“If we take five percent of these farmers using the contact centre, these small scale farmers paying US$5 per month, we will be generating US$375 000 every month.”
