Online Reporter
Precious Manomano and Fatima Bulla
PREPARATIONS for the 2025 Presidential Innovation Fair are now at an advanced stage, signalling a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s commitment to innovation and industrial growth.
Set to take place on Thursday, the fair celebrates and showcases the cutting-edge technologies and creative solutions developed under the country’s heritage-based Education 5.0 model.
With participation confirmed from universities, innovation hubs and private-sector partners, the Government is finalising logistics and security to ensure a seamless experience for exhibitors and delegates.
The fair represents not only a gathering of innovative minds, but also a crucial step towards realising Vision 2030, marking a new chapter in the nation’s economic development.
Speaking at a press conference on preparations for the 2025 Presidential Innovation Fair in Harare yesterday, Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Dr Frederick Shava, reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting innovation and industrial growth through education.
“The Presidential Innovation Fair is a landmark opportunity for our nation. It serves as a platform to spotlight the ingenuity of Zimbabwean innovators who are addressing both national and global challenges,” he said.
The event is a collaboration between universities, colleges, innovation hubs, industrial parks and private-sector partners, all united in their goal to accelerate the country’s industrialisation agenda.
Dr Shava said all key institutions had confirmed their participation. Visitors could expect a diverse array of exhibits, ranging from advances in health and agriculture to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and renewable energy.
“These innovations are not mere concepts; they are practical solutions designed to enhance the lives of Zimbabweans and contribute to our Vision 2030,” he said.
The focus on practical applications signified a shift towards leveraging homegrown solutions for local and global challenges.
The fair’s emphasis on youth participation underscored Government’s commitment to empowering the next generation.
Dr Shava said a dedicated innovation zone will provide young exhibitors with mentorship sessions and pitching platforms to secure investment partnerships.
“We want our youth to be at the forefront of building a new Zimbabwean economy. This initiative is particularly aimed at nurturing young talent, providing them with the resources and guidance required to turn their innovative ideas into successful ventures,” he said.
As the nation transition from the National Development Strategy 1 to NDS2, the Government is aligning its efforts to deepen innovation ecosystems and expand rural industrialisation.
This was to propel Zimbabwe into a new era of growth by ensuring that every innovation generated economic value, created enterprises and contributed to exports.
This strategic alignment with national goals highlighted the Government’s foresight in addressing the interconnected issues of education, innovation and economic development.
With funding for innovation hubs being increased and incentives for innovators on the rise, Zimbabwe was positioned to become a fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures.
Dr Shava was confident in the initiative’s potential, saying by fostering an environment where innovators thrive, Government was ensuring that the country remained competitive on a global scale.
“This vision reflects an understanding that innovation is key not only to economic success, but also to creating sustainable jobs and empowering communities.”
The Presidential Innovation Fair is open to the public, and all Zimbabweans are invited to explore the remarkable advancements made by their fellow citizens.
While the main awards ceremony will be by invitation only, the fair promises an engaging experience filled with demonstrations and interactions with innovators. The accessibility aims to foster a culture of innovation among the general public, inspiring further creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Government’s preparations for the 2025 Presidential Innovation Fair signify a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards becoming a technologically competitive nation.
Peter Tanyanyiwa