Story by Sifiso Sibanda
AS the nation goes a gear up in pushing volumes to the export market, emerging entrepreneurs in the furniture manufacturing sector are hungry for the export market and are kin to work with Zimtrade.
The export drive by Zimtrade appears to have inspired entrepreneurs in Bulawayo to improve their products and explore the lucrative export market.
Furniture producers in the Mashumba and Kevin North industrial areas of Bulawayo have opted for hardwood processing in a drive to access the export markets.
Speaking to ZBC News, the business-people said they are keen to be a part of the Zimtrade’s incubation programme so that they can have access the export market.
“Some of us are ready for the export market and would want to work with Zimtrade so that we are exposed to the international markets and business trends which will help us grow,” said one of the producers.
“We want to grow in our business and access better markets and as such, government intervention is needed because we are the future of this country,” said another.
Another weighed in, “Our products are of high quality and our commitment to follow all regulations from procurement of timber from forestry commission to production lines and what is now needed is access to markets.”
Zimtrade Southern Region Manager, Mrs Jacqueline Nyathi said they are working on ensuring that small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) are streamlined to the export incubation programme for them to start exporting.
“As Zimtrade we are keen to work with all sectors in our export drive because that is what the nation is focusing on to see more businesses exporting their products,” she said.
“Yes we will be visiting them see how best we can work with them so that we advise and train them on marketing skills,” she added.
Zimbabwe is on an aggressive drive to promote and capacitate upcoming business people and help secure markets for their products.
