By Own Correspondent

The inaugural National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives Indaba tackled critical issues bedevilling the sector.

The event discussed the role of MSMEs and cooperatives in driving inclusive economic transformation and sustainable development. By encouraging strategic partnerships, the Indaba hopes to create new opportunities for growth in the sector.

More than 1,500 delegates attended the event including representatives from the MSMEs and Cooperatives sector, government, private sector, development partners, and academia from across Zimbabwe.

Key expected outcomes of the Indaba include: Greater visibility and recognition of the MSMEs and cooperative sector’s contribution to national development.

Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, said the event marked an important milestone in building a stronger enterprise ecosystem.

“Held under the theme, ‘Towards Vision 2030: Building an Enabling Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Ecosystem,’ the Indaba marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s journey towards Vision 2030.

"It has been conceived as a high-level strategic platform to strengthen the contribution of MSMEs and Cooperatives through enhanced policy dialogue, stakeholder collaboration and investment promotion,” she said.

She said the Government recognizes MSMEs and cooperatives as critical drivers of employment creation, value addition, poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth, particularly for women, youth and rural communities.