adminMasvingo Correspondent
SMALL to medium enterprises in Masvingo are positioning themselves to exploit business opportunities that are likely to arise from the proposed tourism and agriculture investment projects at Tokwe-Mukorsi Dam.
Players in the SME sector met academics at a business symposium in Masvingo last week where they called for support from institutions of higher learning in developing their businesses.
Reformed Church University (RCU)’s Faculty of Commerce lecturer, Constantine Mutiwanyuka said colleges and universities have a role to partner SMEs in developing vibrant businesses, training and research.
“One of the major roles that universities and colleges play is research. This helps the institution to explore new opportunities and investigate the discovery of innovative ideas in support of business,” he said.
“Such knowledge is the mainstay for rapid and unimpeded business growth that should give SMEs in Masvingo a competitive edge. Real life research is good for business as discoveries are explored and findings made can promote innovation through entrepreneurial development.”
Masvingo chamber of SMEs secretary Sarah Munemo said the Tokwe-Mukorsi Dam project will bring more business to SMEs.
“We’ve a number of investment opportunities in Masvingo where SMEs should benefit. There’re plans for a game park at Tokwe-Mukorsi Dam within the buffer zone and it’s our right as SMEs to also benefit from this business venture.
“The proposed Nuanetsi ethanol plant also presents similar opportunities and we’re lobbying for the inclusion of small businesses,” said Munemo.
The proposed plant at Nuanetsi will generate about 100 million litres of ethanol per year once it is fully operational with cane being grown on Nuanetsi Ranch.
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