Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE is expecting the forthcoming 7th SADC Industrialisation Week to set the tone for increased production through the implementation of the regional grouping’s industrialisation strategy framework.
The Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu told the ZBC News this Friday that preparations for the SADC Industrialisation Week are almost complete with expectations it will lay out solutions to industrial growth.
“The special focus is to identify the needs of the regional industry’s body thrust towards promoting sustainable growth. Therefore as government, we have done our best to ensure that the implementation of the strategy will further give us an impetus in shaping the future growth of our industries. Mind you, this is an opportunity for local firms to network and exchange ideas on growth strategies that are key towards delivering tangible results on growth so we expect it to be a real platform to generate an impetus towards industrial growth exports increment, and further accelerate development of the manufacturing sector which has to date been on a growth trajectory,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of the SADC Industrialisation Strategy Framework.
“Focus on industrialisation growth remains a key element that is identifying what are the needs of industries in terms of finance, capacity and overall growth as well as focusing on factors to further grow our industries at a time when the nation still needs the regional market base. Basically, this will further enable our local companies to focus on shaping a model that encompasses growth and drives volumes. Remember, the SADC market offers many opportunities for increasing markets to our local companies so it is an important element in accelerating the future direction on regional economies,” he added.
The SADC Industrialisation Week that will be held from the 28th of July to the 2nd of August this year offers an opportunity for Zimbabwe to promote local companies, showcase investment opportunities, foster economic growth and development.