“Over 700 exhibitors have taken up space at the 66th edition of ZITF” – Dr Busisa Moyo

A TOTAL of 775 exhibitors have taken up space at the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which roared to life in Bulawayo today, signalling strong participation and renewed momentum towards industrial growth and regional integration.

Speaking at the Industrialisation and Economic Empowerment Indaba, ZITF Company board chairman Dr Busisa Moyo said this year’s showcase, running under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,” promises to be one of the biggest yet.

“We have a total of 775 exhibitors that are exhibiting this year and a total of 49 foreign exhibitors taking part, with 31 countries represented. I encourage delegates to explore and experience as much as possible because we have a lot to showcase, and the private sector has much to offer as well,” he said.

Dr Moyo said the week-long programme features conferences, forums, networking sessions and high-level engagements aimed at attracting both local and international participants.

The business programme opened today with the Rural Industrialisation Conference, followed by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) Exhibitors and Marketers Cocktail later in the evening.

He described the Rural Industrialisation Conference as a flagship empowerment platform designed to transition communities into active participants in industrial value chains, with about 350 delegates expected to attend.

On Tuesday, attention shifts to the Youth in Business Conference, Buyers Speed Networking session and the ZITF Welcome Cocktail, to be hosted in partnership with the British Embassy in Zimbabwe at Banff Lodge, with 300 delegates expected.

The day will also feature the Innovators Forum and Hackathon, running until Wednesday, targeting 120 participants, including innovators and corporate representatives.

Dr Moyo said the flagship ZITF International Business Conference will take place on Wednesday, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and investors to discuss economic trends and investment opportunities.

About 800 delegates are expected, with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga set to attend as Guest of Honour.

The ZITF Diplomats Forum will also be held on Wednesday evening in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, with around 300 delegates from 54 embassies, development agencies and trade organisations expected.

The official opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday at the Main Arena, with Duma Gideon Boko expected to officiate and tour exhibition stands.

Friday’s programme will feature the Connect Africa Symposium, organised with the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC), where Vice President Kembo Mohadi is expected as Guest of Honour.

Other highlights include the Zimbabwe-Botswana Business Forum, to be held with ZimTrade at Holiday Inn, the ZITF Charity Golf Challenge at Bulawayo Country Club, and the Minister of Industry and Commerce Dinner.

Dr Moyo said the Zimbabwe-Botswana Business Forum is expected to deepen bilateral trade relations and unlock cross-border investment opportunities.