Opinion / Columnist
ZITF 2014, 'New ideas to New Heights'
17 Apr 2014 at 08:44hrs | Views
This year's 55th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) comes at a time when Zimbabwe's blue print economic policy, Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (Zim Asset) is in now in full swing.
This coincidence fits perfectly with the theme for this year's fair, "New ideas to new heights," as indeed ZITF is going to provide a platform for taking Zim Asset to new heights. Launched in October 2013, the policy focuses on a People Centered Government that provides itself in promoting equitable development and prosperity for all Zimbabweans, whilst leveraging their own resources.
The ZITF is held annually at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo. This year's edition will be held from 22 April to 26 April 2014.
The president of Congo Brazzaville, Denis Sassou Nguesso, will officially open the event.
The trade fair has struggled to attract foreign exhibitors over the last decade but this year's exhibition is testimony of the steadfast investor confidence in Zimbabwe.
So far, twenty six (26) foreign exhibitors and three hundred and ninety six (396) local exhibitors have booked to participate in this year's exhibition.
Foreign exhibitors include Brazil, Botswana, China, Congo Brazzaville, Egypt, Ethiopia, Poland, South Africa and United States.
This increased confidence bodes well for Zimbabwe's economy that has been feeling the pinch of the illegal sanctions imposed on the country.
As buyers and producers meet, ZITF will provide an arena to source new markets, link local players with international clients, as well as to promote the country as a prime destination for meetings and conventions.
According to ZITF General Manager, Noma Ndlovu, an aggressive Brand Zimbabwe marketing strategy, coupled with the economic recovery programme Zim-Asset, is envisaged to bring back Zimbabwe on the investment list.
"Technology and Innovation: A Key Pillar for Zim-Asset Successful Implementation," will be the theme for the Zimbabwe International Business Conference that will be held on April 23 organised in partnership with National Economic Consultative Forum (NECF) and other stakeholders . Under this business conference, a number of speakers both local and foreign will make presentations. Foreign presenters will include official envoys to Zimbabwe from China, USA and India. Vice President Joice Mujuru is expected to deliver a keynote address at the business conference.
Ndlovu also highlighted that, the interactive sessions of the conference will present a very important platform for business, academia, labour and civil society to discuss new policy initiatives that are designed to enhance the growth of the Zimbabwe economy.
ZITF has the potential to be Zim Asset's launch pad.
Source - Peacemaker Zano
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