Amanda E. N Jojo

Government is now prepared to host this year’s edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) which will run for four days from 21 to 24 September.

The theme of the 61st Edition is “Showcasing the New Normal for Business and Industry: Realities and Opportunities”.

Speaking at a post press cabinet briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Monica said the first three days of the Fair will be business, and they will be graced by Vice President Constatino Chiwenga who will deliver a key note address at the ZITF International Business Conference.

“His Excellency the President will officially open the Fair on 23 September, 2021, and attendance will be strictly by invitation to manage numbers; the Zim-Diplomats Forum is scheduled for 23 September, 2021 and hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

“The function aims at engaging locally-based foreign diplomats on the ongoing measures by Government to facilitate investment,” Mutsvangwa said.

24 September, 2021 will be a Public day and no children will be allowed entry.

Furthermore, the third edition of the ZITF Innovators’ Forum will be held on 21 to 22 September, 2021.

“The Forum will target innovators drawn from Innovation Hubs of the local universities, and will present students with an opportunity to showcase their innovations to address real life challenges.

“396 local exhibitors, as well as international exhibitors from eleven (11) countries have already confirmed participation. International exhibitors are from Malawi; Tanzania; Namibia; Botswana; Nigeria; Indonesia; South Africa; Belarus; Kenya; Mauritius; and the Democratic Republic of Congo,” Mutsvangwa said.

Because the Trade Fair will be held during COVID-19 times there will be heightened health and safety protocols, modified venue layouts, digital and hybrid meeting platforms and emphasis on numbers management.

“The nation is advised that an elaborate COVID-19 Risk Management Plan has been produced and circulated to all exhibitors,” she said.