Government has hailed Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for their contribution during the economic meltdown vowing to support their growth to fully fledged business units.
Speaking during the 2018 Green enter prize Innovation Challenge held in the capital, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Sithembiso Nyoni highlighted that as part of the government’s 100 day target initiatives, they are looking to fully support SMEs.
“Zimbabwe will never be same again whereby we where not taking SMEs seriously since they have made a big contribution to this economy.
“If SMEs were not were not there during the meltdown, this economy was going to collapse and therefore they need their recognition that they have played a big role.
“Now because we are in the new dispensation, the President is saying lets give the SMEs their space, lets support then fully so that they can grow and take their place in the economy.
“On our 100 days as a Ministry,we want to take about ten SMEs from each province and ensure that they are fully supported for their growth,” she said.
Speaking during the same event, International Labor Organization (ILO) Country Director Hopolang Phororo said they are working towards creating a more conducive environment for future growth and stability of existing enterprises.
“We are targeting existing enterprises, those that have great potential but face sustainability challenges in the current business environment.
“By working with BDS providers, we want to strengthen their business models and by working with government, business workers’ associations, we want to create a more conducive environment for future growth and stability.
“We also want to leverage women entrepreneurship and make sure that the creation of new green jobs results in a more gender balanced labour market with equal access to employment opportunities for young women and men,”she said.
