Chronicle Editor
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
Mine Entra 2024 ended in Bulawayo yesterday and recorded a 20 percent increase in attendance compared to last year, the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair chairperson, Mr Busisa Moyo said.
This year’s expo was held under the theme “Unearthing Success: The Mining Value Chain, Innovation and Industrialisation Nexus.”
“The exhibition occupied a total of 7 828m², exceeding our initial target of 7 500m², representing a 20 percent growth in space occupancy compared to last year. We had 289 exhibitors this year, a 41 percent increase from last year’s 204 and 23 percent of the exhibitors were participating for the first time. Geographic distribution showed that 60 percent of the exhibitors were from Harare and 26 percent were from Bulawayo while international participation rose by 91 percent. A total of 2 536 business attendees were recorded by 10AM today, hailing from Zimbabwe and 15 foreign countries.”
Mr Moyo said this year’s event facilitated a multi-stakeholder dialogue on key themes, including value chain development in mining, innovation and technology advancement, industrialisation and the promotion of sustainable business practices.
He said attendees expressed happiness and satisfaction with the interaction and level of participation at this year’s Mine Entra.
Mr Moyo expressed satisfaction with the positive market response to Mine Entra 2024. The exhibition showcased a variety of products for both large and small-scale mining operations.
The inaugural Buyers Programme, which facilitated meetings between mining companies and exhibitors, was a resounding success. A total of 16 mining houses participated and the programme is expected to grow in future.
Exhibitors praised the programme for its ability to foster stronger business connections and direct linkages with the mining industry.
The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development used the event to urge local suppliers to ensure high quality of products, good customer service, price competitiveness, order fulfilment and commitment to delivery times. The Government was also called upon to craft and implement policies to protect local industries.
Mr Moyo noted the successful inaugural conference of the Zimbabwe Association of Women in Mining, attended by over 120 delegates. He emphasised the importance of women’s voices in the mining industry and their contributions to promoting inclusivity and sustainability. He said the Zimbabwe Miners Federation’s Small Scale and Artisanal Miners Conference, which attracted over 200 delegates, was also another success story.
The conference focused on responsible mining practices and emphasised the need for organised representation in the sector.
Mr Moyo applauded the assistance and support received from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe School of Mines, the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe as well as supplier representatives from NRZ, RMS, and Hungwe Wire & Rope, who all contributed to the success of Mine Entra.
He also expressed gratitude to the event sponsors: Nedbank Zimbabwe, Liquid Intelligent Solutions, Tano Digital Solutions, Petrotrade, Teecherz Furniture, Afdis, Freight World, Ashqai, Akrisbos Capital and Heights Events Management.
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