Story by Mhlomuli Ncube, Assistant News Editor
YOUNG people are expecting increased business opportunities at this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) following the announcement of a Youth in Business Festival to be held on the sidelines of the country’s premier trade showcase.
Preparations for the annual exhibition, set for April, are already underway, with the youth-focused initiative generating optimism among young entrepreneurs.
The Youth in Business Festival is designed to showcase youth-led innovations, promote enterprise development and create networking platforms in line with Zimbabwe’s industrialisation drive.
Some youths welcomed the development, describing it as a positive step towards meaningful empowerment.
“This shows that our government does not only talk about youth empowermen it fulfils it.I am happy that I have a place in the government’s youth empowerment plans. This upcoming ZITF will be even more important for us.”
Zimbabwe Liberation Girl Child in Action Executive Director, Mrs Annah Mabhena, said the initiative reflects a strong commitment to youth inclusion in the mainstream economy.
“Hosting the Youth in Business Festival demonstrates the government’s commitment to uplifting young people and giving them space in the mainstream economy. It shows how serious Zimbabwe is about investing in the future. Youths are the future, and youths in business guarantee a prosperous nation. A country that is serious about its future creates opportunities for its young people, and we believe this ZITF edition will be both exciting and empowering,” she said.
The 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair will run from 21 to 26 April and is expected to highlight policies aimed at expanding business opportunities for young people.
