Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has partnered with the Indigenous Advisory Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe (IAPAZ) to launch monthly networking meetings for small businesses in rural areas.

This initiative builds on the success of popular sessions held in Harare, and aims to support rural SMEs by promoting networking, collaboration, and innovation. This project aligns with the national goal of ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in development.

At the launch event, Bigboy Murenga, the provincial chairperson of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of SMEs for Midlands, confirmed the development and emphasized the program’s inclusive approach.

“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,” he said.

He said the meetings, called Monthly Networking Breakfasts, will be organized in conjunction with local authorities, banks, and large companies, to provide a platform for rural entrepreneurs to connect, form partnerships, and access training programs.

He added that each session will also feature a raffle where a lucky attendee can win a site visit to their business, and gaining media exposure to showcase their work.

Nyasha Gonese, President of IAPAZ, highlighted the importance of SMEs in driving economic growth and urged all stakeholders to support the formalization of rural businesses.

“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,” he said.

This initiative promotes local investment and 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.

New Ziana