Story by Aifheli Mudau
THE sixth edition of the annual Beitbridge Business Expo concluded on Saturday with entrepreneurs urged to adapt to emerging market trends to enhance the competitiveness and growth of their enterprises.
The Expo provides a platform for businesses to showcase their products, expand market access and strengthen commercial networks.
Participants said the event offered valuable opportunities to engage existing and potential customers.
“We are happy to be part of this Expo because it gives us time and exposure to our clientele base,” said one exhibitor.
Another participant added: “We believe from here we will do better and continue improving as we strive to grow our businesses and the wider economy.”
The Expo also attracted exhibitors from neighbouring South Africa, reflecting growing cross-border business collaboration.
Economic Development Officer for South Africa’s Musina Municipality, Mr Itani Dzebu said participation was important given the close commercial ties between the two border towns.
“I am coming from the Municipality of Musina, and as you would agree, we conduct business daily with people from Zimbabwe. It is therefore important to be seen participating in and supporting such initiatives,” he said.
Matabeleland South Agricultural Show Society president Ms Sharon Dewa encouraged entrepreneurs to continue using business expos as platforms for learning and networking.
“We encourage businesspeople to remain committed to these expos so that they can learn from one another as they grow their enterprises,” she said.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe urged local businesses to take advantage of similar exhibitions across the country.
“As Government, we are pleased to see local businesses participating in this Expo, as they will learn from one another. I also urge them to continue engaging in similar initiatives taking place in other cities such as Bulawayo and Harare,” he said.
The Expo comes as the Second Republic continues to encourage entrepreneurs to harness local resources, expand markets and contribute to economic development.
