BUSINESSES and entrepreneurs in Manicaland Province have been encouraged to diversify into the export of services as Zimbabwe seeks to increase foreign currency inflows and create new income streams in a rapidly evolving global economy.
This week, ZimTrade hosted a service sector engagement workshop in Mutare, bringing together emerging entrepreneurs, companies and institutions to explore opportunities in regional and international markets. The workshop focused on enhancing the export potential of services such as construction, engineering, tourism, financial services, logistics, information and communication technology (ICT), creative arts, mining support services and professional consultancy.
Addressing participants, ZimTrade Eastern Region manager, Mr Admire Jongwe, said Zimbabwe is well-positioned to take advantage of growing demand for services across the region and beyond.
“Zimbabwe has traditionally been known for exporting agricultural commodities, minerals and manufactured products. However, the global economy is evolving rapidly. Today, services account for more than two-thirds of global Gross Domestic Product and a significant share of international trade,” he said.
Mr Jongwe noted that Zimbabwe possesses a highly skilled and educated workforce, a vibrant entrepreneurial culture and strategic geographical advantages that can be leveraged to penetrate foreign markets.
“Zimbabwean businesses have built strong expertise in engineering, construction, ICT, logistics, tourism, education, agriculture, financial services, creative industries and professional consulting. These capabilities can increasingly be exported beyond our borders, earning valuable foreign currency while creating quality employment opportunities.
“As ZimTrade, our mandate extends beyond promoting the export of physical products. We are equally committed to developing Zimbabwe’s services exports by helping businesses identify opportunities, understand regional and international market requirements, improve competitiveness and connect with buyers across Africa and beyond,” he said.
Mr Jongwe highlighted Manicaland’s strategic location as a key advantage for exporters.
“Businesses in the Eastern Region enjoy a unique geographical advantage. Mutare serves as Zimbabwe’s gateway to Mozambique through Forbes Border Post and the Beira Corridor, providing direct access not only to Mozambique but also to wider regional and international markets through the Port of Beira,” he said.
The workshop also provided practical insights from businesses already making strides in exporting services.
Founder and director of tourism firm Gatsheni Experiences, Ms Tawanda Gatsheni, said local enterprises should take full advantage of regional trade agreements and protocols to expand their footprint beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
“Our focus is on art, nature and cultural tourism, with the main objective of empowering rural communities. We design the tours, while communities manage the experiences themselves and directly benefit from the income generated,” she said.
Ms Gatsheni said the training had equipped her business with valuable knowledge on accessing foreign markets and attracting international clients.
“ZimTrade has really helped us understand how to market our services outside Zimbabwe. Businesses need to embrace professionalism and high service standards if they are to attract foreign clients. We have also been enlightened on existing trade agreements and protocols that can help us expand into regional markets,” she said.
Six Nine Construction representative, Ms Nyasha Mudekwa, said the company is ready to compete for contracts beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, citing the country’s strong reputation for quality workmanship and skilled labour.
“We are ready to enter foreign markets and bid for construction projects of any size. Zimbabwean professionals are recognised for their expertise, and we believe there is huge potential for local companies to secure business opportunities across the region,” she said.
Dapurahunanzva Arts Ensemble administrator, Mr Tendai Chidzvodo, said the workshop opened new possibilities for cultural exports.
“The training has broadened our perspective on the potential of exporting creative services. We are now looking at opportunities to tour neighbouring countries and showcase Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through music and dance while generating income for our artists,” he said.-herald
