Minister endorses Mazibuko

IN a commendable move, recognising the significant contributions of small business owners to women’s economic empowerment in Zimbabwe, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Dr Sithembiso Nyoni endorsed Sipho Mazibuko, the organiser of the Esteemed Businesswomen Zimbabwe Conference.

The conference held in Bulawayo last month at Lavinia Gardens attracted distinguished guests, including Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Monica Mutsvangwa and Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube, alongside renowned South African actress Sophie Ndaba, adding a touch of glamour to the occasion.

Mazibuko has been praised as an unsung heroine for her dedicated efforts to furnish a platform for women entrepreneurs to acquire valuable business skills and foster meaningful networking opportunities among themselves.

The conference attracted women from across the country and featured workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities.

In her endorsement, Dr Nyoni, lauded Mazibuko’s resilience and perseverance in navigating the numerous challenges encountered by small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe.

“Sipho Mazibuko is a shining example of the kind of entrepreneurial spirit and determination and we need to see more of this in the country. She is an unsung heroine and her event has provided an invaluable resource for women in business and I commend her for her hard work and dedication,” Dr Nyoni said.

Mazibuko, who embarked on her journey as an events planning entrepreneur many years ago, has encountered numerous obstacles along the way. These challenges include navigating economic volatility. However, she has remained steadfast in her commitment to empowering other women and helping them overcome the unique hurdles they face in the business world.

“As a woman in business, I know first-hand the challenges and barriers that we often encounter. For example, there was the 2008 meltdown but because of perseverance and getting help from the Honourable Minister Nyoni who would avail loans for me at Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO), I survived. I owe my success to her throughout my 25 years in business. She has been helping me and I’m the businesswoman I am because of her. Without her, I wouldn’t be this successful,” Mazibuko said.

“My message to women is that they should seek help and move so that they create synergies with women who are like-minded. That’s why it’s so important to create spaces where we can support and learn from each other. My goal with the Esteemed Businesswomen Zimbabwe Conference was to provide a platform for women to connect, share their stories and gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.”

Mazibuko emphasised the importance of women embracing professionalism in their entrepreneurial endeavours as it not only enhances their own businesses but also contributes to fostering a stronger and more transparent economy overall.

The conference was hailed as a resounding success, with participants leaving the event feeling inspired and empowered to take their businesses to new heights.

Many have said Mazibuko’s initiative is a pivotal stepping stone in their entrepreneurial journeys. One such example is Angeline Chipiti from Harare, whose stall at the conference showcased a variety of products including clothing items, bags, flask holders and baskets crafted from recycled DVDs.

She extended her gratitude to Mazibuko for the enlightening event, saying it has not only allowed her to showcase her creations, but also facilitated meaningful connections with ministers and Ndaba.

Minister Nyoni’s endorsement of Mazibuko is a testament to the Government’s recognition of the vital role that small businesses and particularly women-owned enterprises play in the country’s economic development.

As Zimbabwe progresses towards its goal of achieving an upper middle-income economy by 2030 as outlined by President Mnangagwa, the support and visibility extended to trailblazers like Sipho Mazibuko will be indispensable in cultivating a more inclusive and sustainable business environment. Recognising and empowering entrepreneurs like Mazibuko not only drives economic growth but also paves the way for a thriving ecosystem where innovation and opportunity flourish for all. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu