Zim Unlocks New Frontiers For Sustainable Industrialization & Climate-Smart Business Growth

By Sharleen Mohammed

The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) hosted its annual Women in Enterprise Conference in Harare recently, under the theme “Unlocking New Frontiers for Sustainable Industrialization and Climate-Smart Business Growth.”

ZNCC Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Mugaga, emphasized the crucial role women play in driving sustainable industrialization and climate-resilient economies. “Empowering women entrepreneurs is key to unlocking innovative solutions for climate-smart business growth.”

He added that this is an annual event where ZNCC sets the agenda for women in enterprise no matter how harsh the environment can be.

“We expect to take the resolutions of this conference to the Central Bank, Zimra and all urgencies who have to do with entrepreneurship on the market so that we allow business to grow particularly women in business,” said Mr Mugaga.

Professor Mamokhethi Phakeng, renowned South African Business Consultant and Guest of Honour, inspired the audience with her keynote address. “Treat your business like your own child; you never knock off. You keep going,” she advised.

“Develop resilience, network strategically, and don’t be shy to seek opportunities. As women entrepreneurs, you have the power to drive sustainable industrialization and climate-smart business growth.”

Professor Phakeng further emphasized, “Women’s economic empowerment is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals. We must create opportunities for women to access markets, finance, and technology.”

Dr. Mavis Sibanda, Secretary for Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, highlighted women’s significant contribution to Zimbabwe’s economy. According to the ZIMSTATS MSMES Survey 2021, 56% of 3.4 million enterprises were women-owned.

Dr. Sibanda discussed the challenges women entrepreneurs face, including access to funding, markets, and technology, as well as the burden of care work and gender-based violence.

Tatiana Ellis, West Prop Holdings Chief Operations Officer, shared success stories of women excelling in sustainable construction, attributing their success to innovative climate-smart solutions.

The event concluded with a call to action, urging women entrepreneurs to adopt climate-resilient business models, leverage technology for sustainable growth, foster partnerships for climate-smart innovation, and drive sustainable industrialization and economic growth.