Story by Wellington Makonese
HARARE – THE government has called for the streamlining of licensing regulations for innovations to ensure the nation benefits from local intellects, and propel the national development agenda.
This position was underscored during the 6th Edition of the University of Zimbabwe Research, Innovation and Industrialisation Week, which witnessed a notable increase in innovation showcases, rising from under 100 in previous editions to 113 this year.
A significant portion of the exhibits were in the medical sector, with particular attention drawn to a newly established pharmaceutical start-up geared towards local drug production, a milestone hailed as pivotal for public health and economic resilience.
University of Zimbabwe Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Mapfumo, noted that the institution is aligned with national objectives as set by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, particularly in commercialising research outputs.
“This is the year of commercialisation, as directed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The launched start-ups are viable and can attract meaningful investment to scale into full commercial operations.”
Following a tour of the innovation facilities, government officials expressed satisfaction with the progress made, and emphasised the urgent need to relax certain regulatory frameworks to allow these innovations to enter the market more swiftly.
“We want to ensure that the process of granting market entry authority is streamlined. Regulatory frameworks must be effective, but not restrictive to innovation. What we have seen here is encouraging, a state-of-the-art laboratory equipped with cutting-edge technology, some of which was procured through the invaluable support of the French Embassy and its agencies,” the Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Professor Paul Mavima said.
In a demonstration of international collaboration, a Biotechnology Laboratory for animal disease diagnosis, developed in partnership with French research organisation CIRAD, was officially presented.
The lab is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s capacity in disease surveillance, particularly in identifying zoonotic diseases that have implications for both livestock and public health.
French Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Paul Bertrand Barets, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing scientific collaboration.
“Scientific cooperation remains a cornerstone of our relationship with Zimbabwe. For decades, French researchers have worked in Zimbabwe’s national parks and academic institutions. We are proud of our partnership with the University of Zimbabwe. This newly developed biomolecular lab enhances capabilities in detecting zoonotic diseases, a vital contribution to both economic stability and public health.”
Beyond medical innovations, the exhibition showcased a diverse range of start-ups across sectors including renewable energy, agritech, digital technologies, and biotechnology, reflecting the country’s growing innovation ecosystem.
The event is being held under the theme: “From Innovation Hubs to Commercial Markets: Building Zimbabwe’s Economic Pathway”.
