Rural SMEs get boost as Zimbabwe National Chamber partners with IAPAZ
By Dumisani Ndlovu
The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has taken a significant step towards promoting rural development by partnering with the Indigenous Advisory Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe (IAPAZ) to launch monthly networking meetings for small businesses in rural areas.
This initiative aims to support rural SMEs by promoting networking, collaboration, and innovation, aligning with the national goal of ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in development.
“We are guided by the national vision of inclusion. After successful trials in Harare, we are now expanding to bring rural SMEs into the formal economy,” said Bigboy Murenga, provincial chairperson of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of SMEs for Midlands.
The Monthly Networking Breakfasts will provide a platform for rural entrepreneurs to connect, form partnerships, and access training programs, organized in conjunction with local authorities, banks, and large companies.
Each session will also feature a raffle where a lucky attendee can win a site visit to their business, gaining valuable media exposure to showcase their work.
Nyasha Gonese, President of IAPAZ, emphasized the importance of SMEs in driving economic growth. “SMEs are the backbone of any economy. Ignoring them is a mistake. I encourage banks and local authorities to create products that attract SMEs into the formal economy.”
This partnership complements efforts to attract foreign investment, supporting the government’s Vision 2030 goals. As the initiative expands, rural SMEs will play a vital role in Zimbabwe’s economic development, contributing to job creation and sustainable growth across the country.
With over 10,000 SMEs in Zimbabwe controlling 65% of the total corporate purchasing power ¹, this initiative is a significant step towards unlocking their potential.
By promoting local investment and supporting rural businesses, Zimbabwe can tap into the full potential of its SME sector, driving economic growth and development nationwide.
