The 7th SADC Industrialization Week (SIW) commenced on Sunday, with the theme “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development Towards an Industrialized SADC.” This event served as a precursor to the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit, which took place on August 17 in Harare, where President Mnangagwa assumed the Chairmanship of the regional bloc.
Vice President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga and other dignitaries arrived at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC). President Mnangagwa also arrived for the official opening ceremony. Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndhlovu delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of the SIW for regional industrialization and encouraging collaboration in research and manufacturing. He concluded by inviting delegates to explore the country’s tourist attractions.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ambassador Frederick Shava addressed the audience, commending the SIW organizers and highlighting that the event’s theme aligned with the global focus on innovation.
He noted that Zimbabwe was advancing industrialization through the National Industrialization Strategy.
Minister Shava also mentions that the 7th SADC Industrialization Week exhibition has included SMEs to highlight their role and assist them in expanding within the region.
SADC Executive Secretary Mr. Elias Magosi gave his remarks, expressing gratitude to President Mnangagwa for opening the SIW and calling for regional policies that supported industrialization, trade, and knowledge sharing.
He looked forward to President Mnangagwa’s leadership in furthering the industrialization agenda.
Vice President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga delivered his remarks, noting that the SIW boosted intra-regional trade and economic cooperation. He stated that the theme aligned with President Mnangagwa’s vision of promoting innovation and praised his inclusive philosophy, which contributed to national development.
President Mnangagwa was invited to deliver his keynote address. He began by praising the SADC secretariat and local partners for organizing the event, highlighting the importance of Industrialisation Week in promoting intra-Africa trade. He emphasized the need for national development agendas to align with regional goals. The President also stressed the importance of expanding domestic and regional value chains to remain competitive globally.
He discussed the adoption of Education 5.0 and the establishment of innovation hubs that produced various goods, calling for the promotion of youth-led innovations. He further urged governments to fund research and development programs, support ICT and machinery innovations, and develop innovative financing models to drive regional industrialization.
Vice President of CZI, Mr. Mucha Mkanganwi, delivered the vote of thanks. The President then toured the exhibition stands.
