Story by Sifiso Sibanda
VICE President Colonel (Rtd) Kembo Mohadi says Zimbabwe and other African countries participating in the Expo 2025 Osaka have presented a commendable showcase that brings pride and dignity to the African continent.
Following his tour of the Zimbabwe Pavilion, Vice President Mohadi said Zimbabwe continues to shine on the global stage as a prime brand and must-visit destination.
“While our space is small, the manner in which we have packaged the country is commendable indeed and it shows that those tasked to manage this project captured the national vision,” he said.
Reflecting on lessons to take home, the Vice President said the six-month expo provides valuable insights for the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
He suggested that ZITF could be extended to at least a month to allow exhibitors to gain full value.
“It would have been great if the ZITF board chairman, Mr Busisa Moyo had come to see so that they transform ZITF and increase the number of days to at least a month for the full benefit of exhibitors, especially the international ones who must also sample Zimbabwe’s hospitality.”
At the Lesotho Pavilion, Director Mrs Mabasa Ntoi expressed joy at Vice President Mohadi’s visit.
“As Lesotho, we are happy to have the Vice President of Zimbabwe visit us. This gives us strength and vigour to do even more.”
Vice President Mohadi also toured the Angola Pavilion, where he was received by Mrs Albima Assis Africiano, before concluding at the Mozambique Pavilion, where he admired that nation’s exhibitions.
Mozambique’s Minister of Communication and Digital Transformation, Professor Doutor Americo Muchanga, said the visit is a mark of regional solidarity.
“To have our neighbour’s Vice President coming to support us on a world stage like this is so encouraging and we feel the warmth of his visit and advice.”
Concluding his tour of African pavilions, Vice President Mohadi said Africa’s display at Osaka 2025 was impressive, showcasing innovation and creativity, while commending women for promoting authentic, handmade African products.
‘There is good work that our continent has put at this expo and while there are areas of improvement here and there, the innovations that we have seen show that we are the future and are pacing up with the developed world.”
Expo 2025 Osaka, which began in April will end this month.
