PRESIDENT MNANGAGWA OPENS INAUGURAL MSME AND COOPERATIVES INDABA, VOWS SUPPORT FOR PRIVATE-SECTOR-LED GROWTH

Participants were drawn from the MSME and cooperatives sector, government, private sector, development partners and academia from across the country.

Douglas Masveta

July 17, 2026

2 min read

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President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday officially opened the Inaugural National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Indaba at the Harare International Conference Centre, HICC, declaring government’s commitment to building an enabling environment for small businesses.

The two-day Indaba, running under the theme “Towards Vision 2030: Building an Enabling Micro Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Ecosystem,” brought together more than 1 500 delegates from 16 to 17 July 2026.

Participants were drawn from the MSME and cooperatives sector, government, private sector, development partners and academia from across the country.

Speaking after touring exhibitors’ stands, President Mnangagwa said the Indaba reflects government’s drive to promote private-sector-led economic growth.

He said the platform provides businesses with an opportunity to showcase products, exchange ideas, and access opportunities, while also contributing to policies that support the growth of MSMEs and cooperatives.

The objective of the Indaba is to enhance the contribution of MSMEs and cooperatives to inclusive economic transformation and sustainable development through strategic partnerships.

The event also drew regional and international participation. Delegates attended from the Southern African Development Community, SADC, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, UNECA, and the International Cooperative Alliance Africa - Southern Africa Office.

Organisers said the presence of regional and international partners underscores the importance of collaboration in strengthening MSME and cooperative ecosystems.

Government has identified MSMEs and cooperatives as key drivers of job creation and poverty reduction as Zimbabwe works towards achieving Vision 2030.

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