Access to markets: SMEs biggest concern

04 Nov, 2016 - 00:11 0 Views
Access to markets: SMEs biggest concern

The ManicaPost

Tendai Gukutikwa Business Correspondent

IN A BID to promote market access for Small and Medium Enterprises in Manicaland, the province’s Chamber of SMEs spearheaded an initiative of a provincial expo that saw more than a hundred SMEs exhibit their wares at Mutare Hall last Friday.

Mr Moses Mwagura, the chairperson of the Manicaland Chamber of SMEs said SMEs in the province were facing challenges that included low access to viable markets both local and export markets, shortage of capital, obsolete technology, lack of infrastructure, workspace and prohibitive by-laws.

He said the chamber was working tirelessly to eliminate these challenges, adding that the chamber in particular focused on point number 4 of President Mugabe’s 10 point plan, which stresses the need for “unlocking the potential of small and medium enterprises”.

Said Mr Mwagura: “The Manicaland Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprises is positioned to represent the interests of SMEs, and unlock their potential in both the rural and urban business categories.

“To turn around the economy, the chamber conducts its business guided by the National Economic policies of ZIMASSET and the President’s 10 point plan for economic growth.”

The provincial chamber, which is an Association of Small and Medium business enterprises is according to Mr Mwagura, determined to propel the development and growth of SMEs in all the 7 districts of Manicaland province.

“It also recognises in its importance of women and youths’ participation in the development of the economy.

“It seeks to achieve the chamber’s mandate through strategic linkages or partnerships with viable markets, financiers, local authorities, government departments and development partners among others,” said Mr Mwagura.

In her speech which was read by Mashonaland East Deputy Director, Mr Simon Saunyama, the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperative Development, Minister Sithembiso Nyoni said her ministry was ready to assist SMEs with projects in value addition.

“Through our offices located in every district in Manicaland, we are ready to assist all SMEs.

“I urge you to visit those offices and make use of them for your own benefit and benefit of the province and country at large as we have officers that are highly trained to assist you,” said Minister Nyoni.

She urged the participants of the expo to create lasting business relationships and improve on the quality, packaging and branding of their goods and services to remain competitive in the local, regional and global markets.

The two-day expo saw more than 100 SMEs exhibit their goods in different categories that included herbs and medicines, small livestock, art and craft, fashion and design.

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