Story by Yolanda Moyo
ZIMBABWE opens its doors to the world this Tuesday as industry and business leaders, policymakers, innovators, local and global manufacturers will assemble to explore growth opportunities at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo.
King Mswati III of Eswatini is expected to officially open the trade showcase on Friday.
Participants at the ZITF which gets underway this Tuesday are set to experience a dynamic offering of thought-provoking and engaging sessions discussing a range of pertinent topics.
Updating the media on the state of preparedness for the international fair in Bulawayo this Monday, ZITF Board Chairperson Mr Busisa Moyo said this year’s event is bigger and better based on the 30 percent increase in exhibitors.
“The next five days will be a culmination of a multi-stakeholder engagement strategy whose response has exceeded even our own expectations and targets. Even accounting, for the lower base due to the COVID-19 era, a close to 30% increase in exhibitor numbers is commendable,” he said.
“Current figures have us sitting at 533 exhibitors and 46,631 sqm of sold exhibition space, which converts 97% of available exhibition space. Participants will also experience a dynamic offering of thought-provoking and engaging sessions discussing a range of pertinent topics.
“This year’s theme, “Transformative, Innovation, Global Competitiveness,” sets the tone for conversations around Zimbabwe’s trade climate and innovating for global competitiveness. The programme will cover a vast range of subject matter, including, harnessing the power of technology to build a culture of innovation, creating a future-fit labour force, collaborative innovation as the bedrock of intra-Africa and international trade, and much more.”
King Mswati III of Eswatini is expected to officially open the trade showcase on Friday.
“The ZITF 2023 official opening ceremony will take place on Friday 28 April. His Excellency King Mswati III of the Royal Kingdom of Eswatini is expected to officiate. He will be accompanied by the host and patrons of ZITF the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, His Excellency Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The exhibitor profile at the fair is broad with a range of products and devices including agricultural implements and equipment.
Automotive products, building and construction, clothing and textiles, are also among the products at the trade fair.