The recently concluded Inaugural National Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives Indaba marked a historic milestone for Zimbabwe’s economic landscape. Held at the Harare International Conference Centre under the theme “Towards Vision 2030: Building an Enabling Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Ecosystem.”
President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa officially opened the event, reaffirming Government’s commitment to strengthening SMEs and cooperatives as key drivers of economic growth, industrialisation, employment creation and the achievement of Vision 2030. Government pledged to reduce the cost of doing business, simplify regulatory processes and create an enabling environment for businesses to grow from micro enterprises into large companies.
The Indaba brought together Government officials, financial institutions, development partners, academia, and private sector players.
Matabeleland North sent a powerful delegation of 79 participants to the Indaba, comprising local entrepreneurs, exhibitors, business associations, and Ministry officials. The province distinguished itself on the national stage by clinching three prestigious Presidential SMEs Awards. All Colors Hardware from Lupane won the title of Best Compliant SME, while Mackbill Mining Cooperative from Umguza took home the award for Best Mining Cooperative. Sinathankawu Arts and Crafts Cooperative from Victoria Falls secured the honors for Best Arts and Crafts Cooperative. In addition to the top trophies, five other small businesses and cooperatives from the province received First Runner-Up and Special Recognition Awards, cementing Matabeleland North’s reputation for competitiveness and innovation.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development highlighted the critical role the sector plays in the national economy, revealing that 60% of Zimbabwe’s GDP is contributed by MSMEs and cooperatives. The Minister also noted the impressive gender balance within the sector, with women owning over 56% of these businesses nationwide.
The Ministry extended its gratitude to the driving forces behind this success. Heartfelt appreciation goes to the self-funded SMEs, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs who utilized their own resources to attend, as their resilience continues to strengthen the province. Special thanks also go to the Zimbabwe Chamber of SMEs provincial leadership, including Provincial Chairman Mr. V. Tshuma, Provincial Secretary General Mr. Fortune Ndlovu, Bubi Chairman Mr. Ndiweni, and the entire provincial executive for their stellar mobilization efforts. The Ministry further extends its deep gratitude to Lupane State University, ZAMA, ZIMA, and all development partners for their unwavering support.
The province’s strong showing at the inaugural Indaba showed the growing strength of entrepreneurship in Matabeleland North and its important role in driving Zimbabwe’s economic transformation.
