Job seekers struggle to be hired as casual workers at ZITF

Scores of job seekers have besieged Zimbabwe International Trade Fair arena hoping to be hired by exhibiting firms as casual workers.

Traditionally, showcasing companies with stands do hire people to spruce up their pavilions. However, this year job seekers say its tough to be hired.

"Its different from years gone by. Few companies are interested in us," said Lazarus Dube outside the exhibition centre.

Dube said he has lost hope of being hired.

"I have been coming here since Tuesday and no one has hired me, its frustrating," he said.

His counterpart Albert Tshabangu said its a reflection of the economy.

"iTrade Fair seyawa. Years back we would select which job offer to take as there where many companies exhibiting.

"But today I have not seen many trucks coming through with exhibition stuff. The economy is tough."

Casual workers are paid up to $20 a day, depending on the company and nature of the job.

Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe is expected to officially open the 57th edition.

The exhibition runs from  April 26 to 30 under the theme "Innovate -Integrate-Industrialise".