Story by Peter Chivhima
ZIMBABWE’S independence continues to open doors of opportunities for indigenous business players as witnessed at the just-ended 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo.
Before 1980, platforms such as the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) which was then known as the Central African Trade Fair, were largely dominated by the white minority.
Opportunities for black Zimbabweans to innovate, produce and market their goods were limited, often stifled by a system that excluded them from mainstream economic activities.
Today, things have changed and local entrepreneurs are now key players in shaping the national economy.
“We are happy that independence has brought a lot to us and today we are here exhibiting our products freely, in the past it was difficult to get such opportunities because the white minority were the ones owning companies,” an exhibitor said.
“We are grateful for the independence, we are now able to showcase our products, now able to discuss with other people who are into business on how to grow our business and how we can improve on our products as well,” a business owner said.
The Trade Fair is no longer a preserve for a few, but a celebration of Zimbabwe’s diverse and dynamic entrepreneurial spirit nurtured by the freedom and opportunities that independence made possible.
“Independence opened doors for and we are here also showcasing our products. For us, it is also an opportunity to show people who we are in terms of culture as we are showcasing the Nkone type of cattle. We can share that story. Also as a young woman to be here it is all because of independence,” a female farmer said.
“As a young entrepreneur, I am happy that independence came with a lot of opportunities especially for us as young persons, we are now able to come with the products we are making and showcase them here. It is all because our nation is free,” an entrepreneur said.
45 years on, Zimbabwe’s independence continues to change lives turning once-distant dreams into reality and empowering citizens across all walks of life.
