Zimbabwe has capacity to manufacture ICT components and compete globally

A Zimbabwean trade expert says local Small to Medium Enterprises in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector have the capacity to manufacture ICT components and compete on the global market.

Speaking ahead of the "ICT Zimbabwe-Think Global" forum, organiser, Ms Elaine Williams, told reporters that currently Zimbabwe imports a number of ICT components and finished products that can be produced and assembled locally.

Ms Williams said the forum is aimed at establishing ways on how SME's in the sector can get funding, sharing information on markets and how to break into the world market dominated by global giants.

She said Zambia and Rwanda are currently producing a number of components that are used in the ICT sector, a route that Zimbabwean SME'S can easily pursue.

"Mobile phones, computers and computer accessories that we are currently importing can be easily produced assembled in this country.

"This will also help create employment," said Williams.

The "ICT Zimbabwe-Think Global" forum will be held on the 1st of June and will be attended by one hundred to one hundred and fifty participants with the Ministers of ICT, Trade and Commerce and Small to Medium Enterprises and Cooperative Development to make keynote addresses.