Online Reporter
Judith Phiri
INDUSTRY and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi has said the private sector in the country continues to be an important engine of the economy, driving wealth creation, innovation and job growth.
Speaking at the 2026 Megafest Southern Regional Business Awards in Bulawayo last week, he said Zimbabwe’s economic growth cannot be achieved by Government alone.
“We need entrepreneurs who are prepared to invest, manufacturers who are prepared to produce, innovators who are prepared to solve problems, and businesses that are prepared to create employment.
“Our goal must be to move beyond exporting raw materials and focus increasingly on value addition, manufacturing and producing goods that can compete in regional and international markets,” he said.
“Government and business must therefore work together. Government must create an environment that supports investment and enterprise, while businesses must continue to innovate, create value and contribute to national development.”
The deputy minister celebrated the resilience, innovation, entrepreneurship and determination of Zimbabwean businesses that have kept on building even in challenging times.
He said behind every business is a story of courage: someone took a risk, started with an idea, faced challenges and chose to continue.
“We are gathered here in Bulawayo, a city with a proud industrial heritage and enormous potential for the future. The Southern Region has opportunities across manufacturing, mining, agriculture, tourism, construction, logistics, services and the creative industries,” he added.
“Our challenge is to turn these opportunities into businesses that grow, industries that expand, and jobs that transform people’s lives. We must continue asking ourselves: What can we produce here? What can we manufacture here? What can we export from here? That is the mindset that will strengthen our economy.”
Deputy Minister Modi challenged every entrepreneur never to underestimate the importance of what they are building, as their business may provide someone’s first job.
He said their investment may support an entire family, while their innovation may solve a problem for thousands of people.
“Never believe that because your business is small, your contribution is small. Great businesses often begin with very small beginnings. To the winners, congratulations. But let this award be a beginning rather than a destination. Continue to grow, innovate and create opportunities,” he said.
“To those who may not win, do not be discouraged. Keep building. Keep learning. Keep going. One evening does not determine the value of your business.”
The deputy minister commended Megafest Holdings for continuing to create platforms that recognise and connect Zimbabwean businesses.
He said for 18 years, Megafest has provided opportunities for businesses to gain visibility, build relationships and celebrate excellence.
“As president of the Megafest Holdings Advisory Board, I am proud to see this platform continuing to bring businesses together. Strong economies are built not only through competition, but also through collaboration, partnerships and shared opportunity.”
Deputy Minister Modi called for building businesses that create jobs, develop people, support local suppliers, embrace technology, add value, and compete with the best in Africa and the world.
He challenged every entrepreneur who has struggled but refused to quit to keep going, and every young person with an idea to start, and for all to build an economy they can be proud to pass on to the next generation.
The accolades were: Outstanding Businesswoman of the Year — Nomathemba Mkethwa; Outstanding Businessman of the Year — Butho Dube; Outstanding CEO/Director of the Year — Phillip Mutekwa; Outstanding Marketing Leader of the Year — Bryan Nyamayedenga; and Outstanding Manager of the Year —Courtney Richards, among others.
