Story by Yolanda Moyo
VICE President General (Rtd) Dr Constantino Chiwenga has emphasised the crucial role of innovation in propelling Zimbabwe towards robust industrialisation and flourishing trade.
He was addressing delegates at the International Business Conference which headlined day two of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair this Wednesday.
The annual International Business Conference was held this Wednesday in Bulawayo on the sidelines of the 64th edition of the ZITF, attracting more than 800 local and international delegates.
Guest of Honour at the business conference, Vice President General (Rtd) Dr Constantino Chiwenga called upon the business community to harness innovation as a key driver for industrialisation.
“This conference has become an important engagement platform and has become an important annual event in shaping the discourse on national development. This year’s theme resonated deeply with our collective aspirations as espoused in the National Development Strategy One.
“In that regard, it is essential for us as the citizenry to harness innovation for the improvement of our industries and commerce in sync with President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision for this great nation. Government is alive to the fact that successful innovation requires a supportive ecosystem that includes robust infrastructure and enabling.”
With the prime trade showcase being held under the theme ‘Innovative: The catalyst to industrialization and trade,” Vice President Chiwenga highlighted Zimbabwe’s inherent strengths that have positioned the country to excel in the innovation race.
“Education is the cornerstone of innovation and through heritage-based Education 5.0 policy, we have made sure that as a country, we strive to foster creativity and equip learners with problem-solving skills and technical expertise to thrive in the ever-evolving industrial landscape.
“Energy is a critical input to a successful innovation drive. Without adequate energy supply, it will be very difficult to unleash the innovation potential of our scientists. The discovery of vast lithium resources compels us to value and ensure the local manufacturer of lithium batteries for solar energy generation. Plans are also on the course to explore wind energy generation with wind resource assessment feasibility studies having been commissioned through technical support by the African Development Bank.”
Vice President Chiwenga also spoke on the newly introduced ZiG currency, saying it was introduced to ensure a stable microeconomic environment in the country.
The Vice President also toured exhibition stands at the ZITF where he was charmed by the innovative exhibitions being displayed this year.
“I was impressed by the innovative exhibitions that l saw at the stands. They are in line with this year’s theme of innovation as a catalyst to industrialisation and trade. This shows that as Zimbabwe, we are in the right direction in achieving Vision 2030 and l am certain we can attain the vision before 2030.”
Meanwhile, Vice President Chiwenga commissioned PRAZ Bulawayo offices as the Second Republic moves to decentralise government administrative processes.