Story by Lisa Masuku
THE 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair slated for April 21 to April 26 in Bulawayo is set to amplify the Second Republic’s rural industrialisation agenda through the first-ever rural industrialisation conference.
Dubbed the “Blue Sapphire” edition, the country’s biggest trade showcase is set to host an inaugural rural industrialisation conference on April 22.
The first-ever rural industrialisation conference is spearheaded by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce as part of efforts to promote inclusivity, ensuring no one and no place is left behind.
“On April 22 we have the rural industrialisation conference. It’s an inaugural one, spearheaded by the parent ministry, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce,” ZITF CEO, Dr Nicholas Ndebele said.
The first-ever rural industrialisation conference seeks to also show the critical role played by rural communities in advancing the economy.
“The rural areas are quite important as growth areas of the economy, so am inviting those that are part of the rural communities to take part in those conversations,” he added.
Currently, close to 600 direct exhibitors from over 29 countries have registered participation at this year’s premier trade showcase.
