Story by Abigirl Tembo
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to officially open the National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives Indaba at the Harare International Conference Centre today.
The high-level gathering, which began on Thursday, has brought together government officials, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, development partners and private sector players to discuss strategies for strengthening Zimbabwe’s MSME and cooperative sectors.
President Mnangagwa is expected to deliver the keynote address, outlining the Government’s strategy to accelerate MSME growth through improved access to finance, markets, innovation and value addition.
Speaking at a recent media briefing in Harare, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said the indaba reflects the Government’s commitment to the sector.
“This landmark national event will be officially graced by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr ED Mnangagwa, underscoring the strategic importance Government attaches to the SME and cooperative sectors as key drivers of economic growth and national development,” she said.
Senator Mutsvangwa said the indaba will provide a platform for dialogue on policy and regulatory reforms, strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and promote business formalisation.
“It will also support the establishment of a more responsive ecosystem that provides MSMEs and cooperatives with improved access to finance, markets, technology, innovation and business development services,” she said.
The indaba is expected to adopt key resolutions aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of MSMEs and cooperatives, strengthening their contribution to employment creation, industrialisation and the attainment of Vision 2030.
