Zimbabwe’s industry is once again proving its mettle on the regional stage, with local companies not only impressing buyers but also scooping accolades at the ongoing Zambia Agriculture and Commercial Show in Lusaka. ZimTrade, the country’s trade development and promotion body, walked away with the coveted Best International Exhibit Award at the 97th edition of the show, underscoring the growing strength of Zimbabwe’s export drive and product competitiveness. The award, received by ZimTrade Chief Executive Officer, Mr Allan Majuru, alongside Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Zambia, Her Excellency Charity Charamba, was presented during a ceremony presided over by Zambian President, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema.
With over 25 firms participating under the facilitation of ZimTrade, Zimbabwe’s strong presence at the show reflects renewed confidence in the country’s industrial resurgence and its bid to capture a larger share of the regional market. From agro-processing to construction materials and fast-moving consumer goods, the quality of Zimbabwean products on display has attracted glowing reviews from buyers, signalling renewed appreciation of the “Made in Zimbabwe” label. Mr Majuru described early engagements at the show as highly encouraging, revealing a marked increase in buyers keen to explore long-term supply arrangements with Zimbabwean producers.
Exhibitors are equally upbeat, buoyed by rising demand and strengthened brand perception in Zambia. Kokota Spread Chief Executive Officer, Ms Cathrine Mafuku, said the positive reception demonstrates that Zimbabwean companies are poised to scale up production in line with market expectations. Acsend Concrete Operations Manager, Mr Walter Benesi, added that the platform not only opens access to new customers, but also helps firms better understand market trends and tailor products to regional needs.
The rapidly growing participation of Zimbabwean businesses at the annual Lusaka showcase highlights how far local industry has come in value addition, packaging and production consistency. The success aligns with the Second Republic’s broader thrust of transforming Zimbabwe into an export-led economy driven by industrial growth, regional integration and private-sector dynamism. With tangible interest already registered and now crowned by continental recognition, hopes are high that this year’s participation will unlock lucrative orders, joint ventures and supply contracts for Zimbabwean companies.
More importantly, the award serves as a powerful statement to the region, that Zimbabwe is not just open for business, it is excelling, competing and winning on merit, powered by innovation, resilience and world-class quality.
