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The President, who was accompanied by the First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe and their children, was met at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport by hundreds offlag-waving Zimbabweans who were chanting slogans and singing revolutionary songs.
Among dignitaries at the airport, were Matabeleland governors, Ambassador Cain Mathema (Bulawayo), Thokozile Mathuthu (Matabeleland North) and Angeline Masuku (Matabeleland South), Zanu-PF chairman for Bulawayo Province Professor Callistus Ndlovu, Zanu-PF chairman for Matabeleland South Cde Andrew Langa, Politburo members and service chiefs.
The President proceeded to State House after waving to the crowd and shaking hands with some of the people who were jostling to greet him.
The guest of honour, Malawian President Dr Joyce Banda who is on a five-day state visit, is expected here this morning.
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for the afternoon.
Before this, the two leaders are expected to jointly tour exhibition stands. Seventeen countries are exhibiting at this year’s edition of the ZITF, up from 14 last year.
The premier trade showcase continues to grow every year with exhibitors optimistic of clinching lucrative business deals.
The fair provides a conducive meeting place for people willing to create business contacts and explore new markets.
The fair has become a launchpad for companies seeking to break into markets in southern Africa.
Firms seeking to market their products in Zimbabwe also flock to the showcase.
Meanwhile, South, Africa, Zimbabwe’s largest trading partner has launched its imaginatively decorated pavilion in Hall 4.
The pavilion, which this year has 47 companies was launched by South Africa deputy minister of industry and trade Elizabeth Thabethe.
Last year, the South African pavilion had 34 companies up from 15 in 2008.
Online Reporter
Peter Tanyanyiwa