Online Reporter
Sifelani Tsiko
Fact Check Editor
ZIMBABWE will this week showcase its growing innovation and start-up ecosystem at Viva Technology (VivaTech) 2026 in Paris, France, as the country seeks to connect local innovators with global technology leaders, investors and business partners capable of scaling home-grown solutions to international markets.
The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development is leading a delegation comprising officials from the University of Zimbabwe and selected local start-ups to the four-day technology exhibition, which runs from June 17 to 20.
The start-ups selected to represent Zimbabwe are Robestos Technologies, Internet of KAPS and HeyNala.
Widely regarded as Europe’s largest start-up and technology event, VivaTech is expected to attract 180 000 participants, 15 000 start-ups, 4 000 investors, representatives from 171 countries and more than 4 000 partners during its 10th anniversary edition.
The event brings together entrepreneurs, investors, multinational companies, policymakers and technology experts to showcase emerging innovations and explore solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Zimbabwe’s delegation will participate with the objective of showcasing locally developed technologies and innovations that address both national and global challenges, while creating opportunities for investment, partnerships and market access.
Local start-ups are expected to pitch their innovations, demonstrate products and services, and engage with potential investors and international partners throughout the exhibition.
According to organisers, more than 150 000 visitors are expected to explore eight immersive innovation zones covering sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, mobility, healthcare, sustainability, employment, culture and space technologies.
“Every year, the tech world looks to VivaTech as the ultimate arena for groundbreaking ideas. It is a unique space where global giants and ambitious startups meet to show how they are solving the planet’s biggest challenges,” VivaTech said.
“If you want to see where human creativity is heading next, this is where the journey begins.”
Zimbabwe’s participation comes as the country’s innovation ecosystem continues to expand, driven by a youthful, digitally savvy population and growing efforts to develop solutions tailored to local challenges.
Many Zimbabwean start-ups have developed business models designed to operate within structural constraints such as limited infrastructure, low levels of financial inclusion and fragmented markets, resulting in innovative solutions with potential relevance beyond the country’s borders.
VivaTech 2026 is also expected to provide a platform for career development and entrepreneurship through engagements with recruiters, coaching workshops and conferences, with organisers indicating that more than 1 000 opportunities will be available to participants.
