SMEs Converge in Harare for Growth-Focused Symposium

Everisto Zhuwao

More than 100 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) gathered in Harare for the third edition of the Zimpapers Television Network SMEs Symposium, an initiative designed to promote dialogue and strengthen collaboration between entrepreneurs, financiers, and industry experts.

The event was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Honourable Kiven Mutimbanyoka, on behalf of Minister Monica Mutsvangwa.

In remarks delivered on her behalf, Minister Mutsvangwa highlighted that limited access to finance remains one of the major challenges affecting SMEs. She noted that many entrepreneurs possess viable products and strong market demand but struggle to expand due to insufficient capital to invest in equipment or enter new markets.

She called for stronger partnerships between SMEs and financial institutions, urging banks to develop inclusive financial products tailored to the needs of small businesses, particularly women-led enterprises, youth start-ups, and community-based ventures.

The Minister outlined government efforts to bridge the financing gap through initiatives such as the Women Development Fund and the Community Development Fund, which provide targeted financial support to women and community enterprises. She added that the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO) continues to offer tailor-made financial solutions to support business growth.

Government has also reinforced its commitment through the National Venture Capital Fund, which seeks to stimulate innovation in sectors such as agribusiness and manufacturing by providing equity and growth capital to emerging enterprises.

The symposium featured presentations from legal experts on business law and regulatory compliance, while ZIMSwitch delivered insights on leveraging inclusive digital payment systems to drive business growth. Participants also received guidance on company registration procedures.

Entrepreneurs who attended the event expressed appreciation for government support programmes. Ms Getrude Mutinami said the financial assistance she received enabled her to acquire equipment for her food processing business, significantly improving production capacity.

Ms Melody Siziba of Triple Plus Jewellery commended the Ministry for facilitating market linkages, noting that a recent business visit to India allowed her to secure valuable contacts. First-time exhibitor Mr Festus Dinga also welcomed the opportunity to showcase his products and build new business connections.

Speaking on the sidelines of the symposium, Deputy Minister Mutimbanyoka described the gathering as a vital platform for advancing SME development.