Over 40 innovative individuals from various parts of Zimbabwe have recently gained key business skills aimed at transforming their creative ideas into successful business ventures.
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) partnered with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and certified trainers from the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme to host a seven-day Start Your Business (SYB) training event.
This collaboration focused on equipping participants with the tools needed to succeed in business.
The workshop, held in Bulawayo, was organised by the Fine Touch Development Trust.
During the closing ceremony, Mr. Tichafa Mujuru, the Deputy Director of the Postal and Courier Services at Potraz, read a speech on behalf of Dr. Gift Machengete, the Director-General of Potraz.
In his speech, Dr. Machengete praised the participants for their outstanding performance in competitive technology challenges.
“As participants in the Innovation Drive program, you have gained vital business skills that will help transform your groundbreaking ideas into successful enterprises.
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The top five innovators stood out in technology showcases and presented impressive business pitches,” Dr. Machengete said.
He highlighted that the week-long training provided participants with the essential knowledge, strategies, and resources necessary for building sustainable businesses.
He also commended the innovators for their dedication and passion throughout the course.
Dr. Machengete stressed the importance of adhering to ethical business practices and complying with regulations such as tax and procurement laws, as these principles are fundamental for establishing trust, credibility, and long-term business success.
“Adopting these values from the start is crucial for fostering responsible and successful entrepreneurship.
The impact of your businesses will be measured not just by profit but by the trust you earn from your customers,” he said.
As the innovators continue their entrepreneurial journey, he encouraged them to remain innovative, ethical, and resilient.
Dr. Machengete reaffirmed Potraz’s dedication to supporting projects that promote innovation and inclusion within the business landscape.
Through the Universal Services Fund (USF), Potraz ensures that resources are allocated fairly to extend services to underserved communities.
“I urge all of you to keep pushing forward in your business goals, guided by integrity and accountability,” Dr. Machengete added.
He acknowledged that the path ahead might be challenging but emphasised that with perseverance, creativity, and sound planning, the innovators have the potential to build businesses that contribute meaningfully to the national economy.
Dr. Machente expressed confidence in the potential of these innovators, noting that Zimbabwe needs visionary entrepreneurs, and many of the 45 participants are well-positioned to lead the country’s future.
One of the top five innovators, Mr. Frank Makeba, founder and CEO of Hurudza AI, shared their innovation: an AI-driven contact centre designed to assist farmers.
“Our platform allows farmers to log in and report issues via SMS, voice, or web, receiving automated responses.
Our goal is to provide farmers with on-the-go agronomy advice, making it accessible directly from their pocket,” he explained.
Mr. Makeba noted that the platform also supports communication in local languages, making it easier for farmers to engage.
With agriculture employing 60 percent of Zimbabwe’s population and over 1.5 million farmers, Mr. Makeba projected that if just five percent of these farmers used the platform at a subscription fee of US$5 per month, it would generate US$375,000 every month.
