Online Reporter
Judith Phiri,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Bulawayo Chamber of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) has called on local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase unique products at the MSMEs Winter Expo that kicks off on Thursday.
The inaugural vibrant three-day expo being held at the City Hall Car Park brings together local entrepreneurs and small businesses into handmade crafts, food and fashion among other sectors.
According to the United Nations (UN) Globally, MSMEs account for 90 percent of businesses, employ 60 to 70 percent of the workforce, and contribute approximately 50 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In Zimbabwe, according to the 2021 MSME Survey and the 2022 Finscope Survey, MSMEs contribute over 60 percent of the GDP and employ 4,8 million people on a full-time basis.
In an interview, Bulawayo Chamber of SMEs vice-chairperson, Ms Sithabile Bhebhe called on local MSMEs to capitalise on the expo to boost their production.
“MSMEs are driving and immensely contributing to economic prosperity not only to the national GDP but provincial GDP as well. They have become a big economic force in the country and across the globe.
“In Bulawayo, MSMEs play a pivotal role and positively contribute to the city’s GDP. As a chamber we are calling upon them to capitalise on events such as this Bulawayo MSMEs Winter Expo to showcase unique products that can attract customers for them and boost their production,” she said.
She said innovating and improve the quality of products and services was critical for MSMEs to ensure they stay relevant in the evolving times.
Ms Bhebhe said expos and trade fairs were a great marketing opportunity for small businesses.
“Exhibiting at these expos allows MSMEs to meet other businesses and organisations not only in their area but from other parts of the country. Networking is an automatic benefit to attending these expos, coupled with brand-building awareness, boosting sales, getting direct feedback on products and services as well as gaining market share.”
