THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has begun preparations for its 2026 events programme, with a strong focus on nurturing and growing initiatives introduced in 2025. It will also give special attention to expanding the local and international appeal of its established events.
The ZITF Company is Zimbabwe’s leading organiser of national and international exhibitions and events. Based in Bulawayo, its core mission is to promote trade, commerce, and industry in Zimbabwe and beyond by bringing businesses together and showcasing innovation.
This year, the ZITF Company introduced three new events: the Livestock Conference in March, the Scholastica Expo in July, and the Climate Change Sustainability Week and Green Business Expo in September.
Responding to questions from the Zimpapers Business Hub, ZITF marketing and corporate communications manager Mr Thandolwenkosi Nkomo said 2025 was an exciting year for the organisation.
He described 2025 as a busy year full of learning, partnerships, and growth, which will be leveraged to position the organisation for an even stronger 2026.
“We are looking forward to a busy and fruitful 2026 as we host these events yet again, starting with the Livestock Conference in March, followed by the ZITF Show, which is set for 20–25 April. Our desire in 2026 is to nurture and grow the events that were introduced in 2025 and also continue to expand the local and international appeal of the ZITF Show and Mine Entra so they remain relevant to the needs of exhibitors, visitors, and the Zimbabwean economy.
“The ZITF team has been engaging with various stakeholders to ensure that new and exciting features are introduced to all our expos to ensure they have a lasting impact on participants,” said Mr Nkomo.
Held annually in Bulawayo, the country’s second-largest city, the ZITF Show has long been a significant event in the Southern African region, consistently attracting participation from businesses and investors across the region and beyond.
This year, the annual business showcase — one of Zimbabwe’s largest trade events — ran from 21 to April 26, 2025 under the theme “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Landscape.” Dubbed the Blue Sapphire Edition, the theme underscored the role of industrialisation in driving economic transformation, investment, and regional integration.
Over the years, the trade fair has evolved from a national exhibition into a global event that draws delegates from across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
As a premier multi-sectoral exhibition, ZITF attracts a diverse mix of local and international businesses, government officials, diplomats, and investors. This congregation provides unparalleled opportunities for networking, forging partnerships, and exploring collaborations that can drive economic growth and diversification.-herald
