For Zimbabwe to succeed in lifting millions out of poverty and create a model of shared prosperity, focus must shift towards promoting self-employment through skills and traditional knowledge, a UNESCO official has said.
Speaking at the official opening of the Third women’s showcase market held in Harare in July, Regional Director, UNESCO Regional Director for Southern Africa Mr. Hubert Gijzen said Zimbabwe is a blessed country with very rich natural, mineral, cultural and human resources.
“While Zimbabwe is experiencing economic hardship, this country continues to be blessed with very rich natural, mineral, cultural and human resources.
“Investing in TVET (Technical and Vocational Education Training) helps to eradicate poverty and push rich resources higher up in the value chain, and as such generating economic growth, jobs and prosperity for all Zimbabweans.
“Building on this successful example of the women’s showcase market presents an opportunity to promote Zimbabwe’s psycho-motor activities in TVET culture, heritage and entrepreneurial excellence,
“It will further assist the objective of market linkages and promoting Zimbabwe as a premier tourist destination,” said Gijzen.
Meanwhile Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs, Miriam Chikukwa commended UNESCO for supporting the exhibition.
“I want to commend UNESCO for supporting this initiative.
“I call upon business organizations to also support this women farming syndicate to help it grow and reach greater heights.
“I encourage more women to come and exhibit their handmade arts, crafts and traditional foods,” said Chikukwa.
She said the participation of exhibitors from other provinces as well as outside Zimbabwe was encouraging as it helps in creating synergies and open new markets for women businesses.
“I am encouraged that we have exhibitors from other provinces as well as from outside Zimbabwe and l am reliably informed that we have exhibitors from Uganda.
“l sincerely hope that through your participation at this market showcase, you will benefit tremendously,” said Chikukwa.
