Story by Tamuka Charakupa
MASHONALAND West Province is targeting investment deals worth nearly US$30 million following participation at the She Millionaire Trade Expo and Global Awards held in Guangzhou earlier this year.
The expo, held in March, opened investment, trade and technology transfer opportunities for the province through engagements with international companies and entrepreneurs.
Zimbabwe was represented by 31 entrepreneurs at the event, including three small-to-medium enterprises from Mashonaland West. Delegates also attended from South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, Namibia and the United Kingdom.
Speaking during an awards dinner in Chinhoyi on Wednesday, Mashonaland West Deputy Director for Economic Affairs Mr Farai Mavhima said Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement policy continues to attract international investors.
“Our country remains competitive on the global investment market under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the Zimbabwe is Open for Business mantra,” he said.
Mr Mavhima revealed that a Kenyan company, Commerze San Frontiers Private Limited, proposed a US$25 million solar energy investment in the province.
He added that Elegant Gateway had proposed a US$2.9 million tourism amusement park project at the Chinhoyi Caves, while another investor tabled a US$1 million infrastructure proposal targeting roads, water, housing and wastewater management.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo was among recipients of the Women in Leadership Award at the event.
“This award is not just a personal achievement, but recognition of the collective efforts being made by women, entrepreneurs and communities in Mashonaland West Province,” she said.
Businesswoman Mrs Letwinner Nyagano said participation at the expo had unlocked new international supply partnerships.
“Through Nyagacity Enterprises, we are now finalising a stockfeed ingredients distribution deal with a Chinese company valued at around US$60 000 per month,” she said.
Ms Memory Chitiyo said her company, Royal Memorials Funeral Services, had entered advanced discussions on international funeral services and premium casket distribution deals worth about US$240 000 per consignment.
Meanwhile, cattle breeder Mrs Calsilda Mhlanga said the expo exposed local producers to modern livestock production systems, packaging and export opportunities.
The She Millionaire Trade Expo and Global Awards was founded by Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur Mandy Sigauke to promote women’s participation in global business and investment.
