malvernmugadzikwa
Sunday Mail Reporter
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) should formalise their businesses to enhance their contribution to national development, a Cabinet Minister has said.
This was said by Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa at the inaugural Summer Business Expo for MSMEs held in Southlea Park yesterday.
Running under the theme, “Network for value creation combined with fun for the whole family”, the event attracted over 80 business enterprises operating in Southlea Park and beyond.
In a speech read on her behalf by the deputy director for business skills development Mr Mamvura Mabika, Minister Mutsvangwa said hosting of such expo was in line with the Government’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
“I would like to congratulate the expo organisers for taking a bold initiative in establishing upmarket facilities in an area where most people would just put up basic structures to serve basic purposes.
“This indeed dovetails with Government thrust of developing modern appropriate infrastructure,” Minister Mutsvangwa said.
The expo, she said, brings business people from different backgrounds together to network and exchange ideas which are good for growth.
“This inaugural expo presents an opportunity for MSMEs and stakeholders to network, share insights, experiences and ideas critical for business success.
“To the MSMEs exhibiting here, I would like to highlight that this expo not only enables you to market your products and services here in Southlea Park, but also serves as a springboard for you to scale up and participate at provincial and national expos like Zimbabwe Agricultural Show and Zimbabwe International Trade Fair,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
She urged organisers of the event to make the expo an annual event.
Hempac Group Board chairperson, Mrs Emilia Chisango said the event was a success.
“When you look at the people that are around here, you see success.
“I am really happy with the turnout that I saw here and most importantly, the fact that this expo was really opened for all MSMEs you may think of,” said Mrs Chisango.
She said communities like Southlea Park are despised by many but have a lot of potential.
“People only need to formalise their enterprises and realise their full potential,” she said.
Amongst the exhibitors were garment makers, graphic designers, backyard farmers, school children and reputable companies including Econet Wireless and FBC bank.
Online Reporter