Diaspora business expo set for inaugural SA leg

The Zimbabwe Business Expo, a critical platform for bridging the gap between locals in the Diaspora and investment opportunities back home, will this year be in South Africa.

Now in its second year and organised by the Zimbabweans in the Diaspora Organisation (ZIDO), the expo is cementing its status as one of the most important platforms for connecting diaspora based Zimbabwean entrepreneurs, potential investors and key Government officials.

“This year’s event expands its reach with an inaugural South Africa edition, scheduled for May 24.

Since its inception, the expo has played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the diaspora and investment opportunities back home,” ZIDO chairman Mr Blessed Kapesa said.

He said the first edition, held on October 5, 2024, in Birmingham, England, attracted business leaders from various sectors of the economy keen to explore opportunities in Zimbabwe.

“Building on this momentum, the upcoming second edition will take place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, South Africa on May24, 2025.

“It is expected to draw even more stakeholders dedicated to fostering economic growth,” he said.

Zimbabwe has been encouraging diaspora investments in various sectors like agriculture, real estate, tourism, education and health.

To that end, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) put in place a diaspora desk in its foreign investment department to facilitate investments into the country from the Zimbabweans in the diaspora.

According to the central bank, diaspora remittances have consistently played a vital role in bolstering the country’s economy, contributing significantly to the nation’s total foreign currency inflows.

In February 2025, Zimbabwe’s diaspora remittances grew by 7,5 per cent year-on-year, totalling US$165 million, up from US$153,8 million in February 2024, accounting for 17 per cent of the total foreign currency receipts.

ZIDO has previously hosted homecoming business summits in Harare in December 2023 and 2024.

Mr Kapesa emphasised the significance of the expo in empowering Zimbabweans abroad with essential knowledge about business opportunities in the country.

“When we launched the first edition of the Zimbabwe Business Expo, our goal was to create a bridge between Zimbabwean entrepreneurs in the diaspora and investment opportunities back home. Over the past two years, we have seen remarkable progress in strengthening these connections,” he said.

He also highlighted the expo’s role in addressing misconceptions about Zimbabwe’s investment climate.

“There has been a lot of misinformation about doing business in Zimbabwe, and many potential investors have been hesitant.

“Through this platform, we have facilitated direct engagement with key stakeholders, allowing the diaspora to get a true picture of the opportunities available,” he added.

Zimbabwe’s remittances come from a large pool of Zimbabweans living and working outside the country, including South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

Diaspora remittances are crucial for the economic and social well-being of countries of origin, acting as a lifeline for families and communities and contributing significantly to development by supporting basic needs, education, healthcare and even investments in agriculture and businesses.

Last year, Zimbabwe witnessed a significant surge in diaspora remittances, with inflows reaching a record US$2,2 billion, representing a 22 per cent increase from the US$1,8 billion recorded in 2023.-chroncile