United States pledges deeper ties at ZITF Innovators Forum

THE United States has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade, investment and innovation linkages with Zimbabwe, with a strong focus on empowering young entrepreneurs and fostering globally competitive industries.

Delivering a keynote address at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Innovators Forum, the US Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ms Pamela Tremont, said this year’s theme, “Connected Economies: Competitive Industries,” underscores the importance of collaboration in driving modern economic growth.

“In 2026, no economy thrives in isolation. The most competitive industries are those that connect, connecting ideas to markets, talent to opportunity and local innovation to global impact,” she said.

Ms Tremont commended ZITF organisers for successfully hosting the forum over the past three years, noting that the US Embassy has deliberately increased its participation as part of efforts to expand economic cooperation between the two countries.

She highlighted the visit of US tech-entrepreneur Ms Bronwyn Morgan, a veteran of global firms such as Procter and Gamble and Coca-Cola, as a key component of efforts to bridge innovation ecosystems.

Amb Tremont said Ms Morgan has been engaging Bulawayo’s technology community through discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and drone technologies at innovation hubs, including Uncommon Hub, Bulawayo Tech Hub and Oasis Hub.

“At each stop, she has forged connections between American innovation and Zimbabwean ingenuity,” she said.
Drawing from the United States’ innovation journey, Ambassador Tremont pointed to global success stories such as Apple and Amazon, which began as small start-ups and grew into industry giants due to supportive ecosystems that encourage experimentation and risk-taking.

She said similar opportunities exist for Zimbabwean innovators, particularly with emerging technologies like AI and autonomous systems transforming sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and manufacturing.

“In agriculture, AI-enabled drones can monitor crop health and boost yields, while in healthcare, AI is improving early disease detection. These are global tools that can work anywhere there is talent and determination,” she said.

Amb Tremont also underscored the importance of exchange programmes and partnerships with local institutions, singling out ZB Financial Holdings for its role in advancing innovation through collaborative initiatives.

She applauded local innovation leader Mr Patrick Maseko for driving technological advancement within the banking sector, noting that exposure to international networks helps build sustainable enterprises.

As part of ongoing engagements, the US will host several innovation-focused events, including the Bulawayo Enterprise Showcase, a “Shark Tank”-style pitching platform for emerging entrepreneurs and the Freedom 250 Founders Museum exhibition at the National Gallery in Bulawayo.

The exhibition, running for six weeks, commemorates 250 years of American independence and uses artificial intelligence to present the history of the United States in a modern, interactive format.

Amb Tremont said the US approach at this year’s ZITF prioritises targeted, high-impact engagements rather than large exhibitions, with a deliberate focus on young innovators.

“To the students here today, you are living in the most exciting time to be an innovator. You don’t need permission, only skills, networks and courage,” she said.

Amb Tremont encouraged young people to take advantage of digital tools, online learning platforms and mentorship opportunities to build scalable businesses.

She said Zimbabwe has vast untapped potential driven by a talented and resourceful population capable of solving real-world challenges.

“What are needed are stronger connections to capital, markets, technology and each other,” said Amb Tremont.
She reiterated that while the US will continue supporting innovation through partnerships, exchanges and investment promotion, Zimbabwe’s development trajectory ultimately lies in the hands of its people.

“Zimbabwe’s innovation story will be written by Zimbabweans. Our role is to support, connect and celebrate your success,” she said.