Online Reporter
Kuda Bwititi in China
Zimbabwean female entrepreneurs led the country’s participation at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) which concluded in Shanghai on Monday.
A significant contingent of exhibitors at the Zimbabwe Pavilion was female-led, with the entrepreneurs utilising the premier global platform to showcase Zimbabwe’s commitment to female empowerment.
Musician Ms Sandra Ndebele, chairperson of the National Handcrafts Centre for Zimbabwe and an exhibitor at the expo said: “The dominant presence of these women at a premier international platform like the CIIE is a resounding testament that women are at the forefront, championing Zimbabwe’s economic and social development on multiple fronts. We promote everything that is handmade in Zimbabwe.”
Ms Nyarai Kurebgaseka of Kaza Oils, a company that produces natural oils, emphasised that women’s empowerment is central to her company’s operations.
“Our work directly impacts women in rural communities. We provide them with sustainable livelihoods by sourcing raw materials through women-led cooperatives.
“Being here at the CIIE allows us to scale this impact, bringing our story and our products to a global audience and creating opportunities that ripple through entire communities.”
Ms Dionne Chibaya, an exhibitor from Budiriro said: “We had an amazing experience at the CIIE. We have interacted with many buyers.”
The eighth CIIE, which commenced on November 5, featured 4 108 overseas exhibitors from 155 countries.
At the conclusion of the CIIE on Monday, officials revealed that the fair had achieved record-breaking results, underscoring China’s unwavering commitment to global cooperation.
The event recorded deals of over US $83 billion for the purchase of goods and services.
