Michelle Moyo, [email protected]
MATABELELAND North is ready to showcase its extensive economic potential at the third Provincial Business Expo set to begin in Lupane today.
The region boasts mineral resources like coal, gold, coal-bed methane gas, teak timber, lithium and abundant wildlife, fish and fertile agricultural soils.
The two-day expo, now in its third edition, is co-ordinated by the Zimbabwe Education Fund (Zimefu) in partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development.
The expo will run under the theme “Empowering Mat North : Collaborating For Economic Growth, Community Development and Women Empowerment.”
The event is designed to foster economic growth, innovation and entrepreneurship in the region, aligning with Zimefu’s dedication to education and community development.
Added to that, it plays an important role in fuelling economic growth and driving towards making Zimbabwe Open for Business.
It also presents networking opportunities and the chance to explore potential partnerships and collaborations.
The founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zimefu, Mr Gibson Mwinde, told Business Chronicle that the expo is open to small and medium entrepreneurs, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and corporates.
It is expected to feature a wide range of exhibitors, including manufacturers, service providers, agricultural producers and crafters.
“This expo is a crucial initiative that will help stimulate economic activity and growth in the region, by bringing together diverse stakeholders, we hope to facilitate knowledge sharing, identify new market opportunities and support the development of small and medium enterprises,” said Mr Mwinde.
He said during the expo, exhibitors will have a chance to attend seminars and workshops and learn about the latest trends and innovations in various industries.
“We are particularly excited to see the participation of SMEs and individual entrepreneurs, these are the backbone of our economy and this expo will provide them with a valuable platform to showcase their capabilities and connect with potential customers and partners,” he said.
He further outlined that the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development has thrown its full support behind the event, recognising its potential to empower local businesses and drive economic development in the region.
“This partnership between Zimefu and the Ministry demonstrates our shared commitment to fostering a thriving business ecosystem in Zimbabwe, by working together, we can create new opportunities and help our communities reach their full potential.”
Zimbabwe Education Fund Trust is a non-profit organisation that assists vulnerable orphans and children in Lupane District. —@Lo7246Lovelyn



