Online Reporter
Harmony Agere
President Mnangagwa has called on the nation to fast-track the transition from prototypes to fully-fledged companies, emphasising that Zimbabwe must begin exporting home-grown innovations that support national industrialisation and economic growth.
Speaking at the Presidential Innovation Fair Awards Ceremony at the Harare International Conference Centre today, the President highlighted the maturity of the country’s innovation sector, stating that it is now imperative for ideas to evolve into market-ready enterprises.
“We have made significant progress since we introduced the Presidential Innovation Fair,” he said. “It’s time to transform ideas into companies and concepts into exports.”
The President urged companies to take a more active role in supporting innovators within universities, colleges, and research institutions, ensuring that innovations do not remain at the prototype stage.
He introduced the innovation awards to inspire creators, catalyse breakthroughs, and motivate future generations of innovators.
“These awards will serve to motivate winners, break new ground, and inspire the next generations of investors and innovators,” he said.
This year’s Fair saw participation from a variety of stakeholders, including Government agencies, students, and tertiary institutions.
The President called for broader participation in the future to ensure that no talent goes unnoticed.
“At this platform, we celebrate innovators who excel in creating solutions,” he remarked. “I congratulate all stakeholders for successfully hosting this event for the third consecutive year. Well done!”
President Mnangagwa stressed that this consistency demonstrates the nation’s growing commitment to building an innovation-driven economy.
The Fair showcased cutting-edge solutions across various sectors, reinforcing the national initiative to turn local creativity into competitive enterprises capable of contributing to exports and economic transformation.
