daniel chigunwe
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Senior Reporter
Organisers for a gala dinner dubbed “Zimbabwe UK Community COP26” say preparations are at an advanced stage.
The event, scheduled for November 2 at Trades Hall in Glasgow, Scotland, is expected to be a red carpet affair.
The organisers said the gala was an opportunity to engage with the Zimbabwean community and business leaders to support and celebrate Zimbabwe in COP26. High-profile speakers have been lined up and will speak on various issues including business, culture and climate change.
Artistes expected to perform include Tytan, Cynthia Gentle, Rose Chihera, Ngoni Kambarami and Tawana Music with DJ King Alfred and Kaycee.
The event is being hosted by businesswoman and philanthropist, Glorainne Francis, affectionately known as GloDiamond.
On the red carpet, fashion icon and stylist Craig Twist (Mr Rocca) and Kuda Kunaka (MC KudaZvinhu) are expected to showcase their talent as they interview guests upon entering the auditorium.
Chairperson of the organising committee for the event, Marian Kirk, said all was set.
“We have lined up a host of popular entertainers from within our community.
“We want people to enjoy themselves even as we create important business relationships with other Zimbabweans,” she said.
Francis said the event had attracted interest from various business leaders and community members who have come on board as stakeholders and partners.
“Many people are looking forward to engaging with fellow Zimbabweans in harmony, peace and unity of purpose to economically develop Zimbabwe and for networking,” she said.
One of the sponsors, Martin Mangaba, founder and CEO of Marny Group Ltd, said: “Sponsoring this event was an easy decision for my wife and I.
“We are firm believers in networking and the great potential that can be unlocked when Zimbabweans rally together for a progressive cause. The New Dispensation has set an attractive trajectory for business-minded Zimbabweans.”
Other important sponsors include Zanu PF UK, Sovereign Cleaning Service, Support Unlimited UK, Tese-Sonke Agriculture Solutions, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Young Women For Economic Development (YWED), She Builds Vision, eJamela Prints and Gifts, De Genesis and Wamambo Holdings.
YW4ED Diaspora Chapter chairperson, Salome Eric, said their goals is to empower the girl child economically.
“We are taking part in this initiative as we understand that climate change creates a wide range of risks for businesses.
“Our involvement at COP26 provides us an opportunity to understand how we can support our Government in meeting NDS1 goals and deliverables.
“The summit allows us to engage with industry leadership and key stakeholders and provide opportunities to engage with the COP26 agenda and participate in related events,” she said.
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