Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa-Mashonaland East Bureau
THE Government remains committed to creating a business environment that supports investment, innovation and sustainable economic development in pursuit of Vision 2030, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Advocate Itayi Ndudzo has said.
He made the remarks in a speech read on his behalf by Assistant District Development Coordinator for Marondera, Mr Tonderai Chiyama, during the Marondera Business Expo held in Marondera recently.
The Expo brought together companies and organisations from Marondera where they shared business ideas as well as showcasing their products and services.
The second Marondera Business Expo was organised by Marondera Urban Business Association in partnership with the Marondera Municipality.
In his speech, Advocate Ndudzo emphasised the importance of professionalism and transparency for businesses to grow.
“We encourage businesses to embrace technology, improve the quality of their products and services and remain competitive for the promotion of brand Zimbabwe internationally.
“I also call upon businesses to uphold professionalism, transparency and good corporate practices. Success should not only be measured by profits, but also by the positive contribution business make to society by solving problems and improving the quality of life for all citizens.” Businesses, he said, could support communities through job creation, skills development, environmental responsibility and social investment.
“Building our future means sustainably investing in people and creating opportunities for the next generation,” he said.
“Let us support young people with skills, mentorship and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the economy. In this manner, we will be building the capacity of business leaders of tomorrow and planting the seed of future corporate giants and start-ups.”
He envisioned a future where Marondera will be the next global Silicon Valley, a hub of entrepreneurship and tech excellence.
Adv Ndudzo commended the organisers of the event, and highlighted its importance in the growth of Marondera’s eonomic activities.
“This business expo is more than just an event, it is a brilliant concept that not only showcases the diverse businesses operating within Marondera and the Mashonaland East Province but also aims to stimulate and bolster economic growth in our province by creating valuable connections and opportunities for collaboration.
“As I look around, I am genuinely delighted and impressed by the extensive array of businesses present, which highlight a wide variety of industries and services. This eclectic mix truly embodies the rich and vibrant economic landscape that characterises Marondera and the province at large.”
The diversity of businesses, he said, reflects a thriving economy that offers abundant opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Marondera Urban Business Assocation (MUBA) for their pivotal role in spearheading this remarkable business exhibition.” Their dedication and tireless efforts in organising this event speak volumes about their commitment to nurturing and uplifting the local business community.”
He went on to say it is his hope that the exhibition not only becomes a recurring annual event but also continue to grow in both scale and impact.
Marondera Town Clerk, Mr Rinashe Nyamuzihwa, said the expo provides a platform for dialogue, partnerships and for unlocking investment opportunities in Marondera and the Mashonaland East Province.
“Also, for the business community of Marondera and for the Mashonaland East Province at large, this expo provides direct access to markets, new suppliers, financiers and to the consumers who drive our local economy.
“It creates visibility for our small to medium enterprises, it showcases our products and it positions Marondera as a place where business can start, grow and thrive.”
The expo, he said, also signalled that Marondera was open for business and open for investments.
“When our businesses succeed, jobs are created, rates are paid and service delivery improves for all stakeholders and rate payers,” he said.
In his remarks, MUBA chairperson Mr Carlos Pindire said besides exhibiting their products and services, the expo brings a platform where business people can network.
Participants were urged to take full advantage of this expo to network, learn from one another, collaborate, and build sustainable businesses.
“This is an exceptionally opportune moment to invest here, as we are experiencing remarkable, transformative growth across various sectors,” he said.
“Our provincial capital, Marondera, is on the verge of achieving city status, which is poised to usher in significant economic impacts, resulting in heightened business activity, increased inflow of investments, expanded employment opportunities, and broader markets for trade within Marondera and the province overall.”
Exhibitors applauded organisers of the expo for giving them a platform to showcase their products and services.
“This expo has given us a platform to advertise our products as well as having an opportunity to meet clients in the Marondera’s central business district (cbd).
“This is a platform where we can also meet other players and share ideas , so we really commend those who made this event a success,” said Ms Tatenda Gurure, manager for Marondera based company Southern Roof.
Mrs Margaret Mlambo, the managing director for Super Grow Stock Feed, said they are happy to be exhibiting and showcasing their new products.
“We are a new company, launched about two months ago and we do stock feed. This expo has enabled us to showcase our new products and network with other players as well as farmers. This will help us to grow,” she said.
