Small business operators in Bulawayo have hailed the recently held Bulawayo Small Scale business expo, describing it as a game-changer that opened doors to growth and market linkages.

Bulawayo Chamber of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) vice-chairperson Sithabile Bhebhe told Southern Eye Business that the expo was a resounding success, with over 200 SMEs showcasing their products and services.

“We are happy that SMEs came out in large numbers. This is a positive move,” she said.

“They should not consider themselves small as they are carrying the burden of moving the economy forward. But they must not operate in a vacuum.”

Bhebhe urged more businesses to register with associations, which she said protect their rights and fight for better opportunities.

She also noted that awards presented during the expo recognised outstanding practices and performances, providing further motivation.

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Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association (BVTA) projects officer Bakani Ncube praised the platform for creating valuable business linkages and exposing SMEs to new innovations and service providers.

“It also gave them recognition within the community,” she said, adding that the awards, the first of their kind, were designed to inspire excellence.

Among the exhibitors was Mpopoma Development Trust director Barnabas Sibanda, who also runs Kinetic Engineering, a fabrication business that manufactures grinding mills and kinetic-energy machines.

 “We also run educational programmes to teach the community about culture,” Sibanda said.

The expo, which attracted a diverse range of small-scale traders, demonstrated the resilience and potential of Bulawayo’s informal sector.

Organisers expressed optimism that the connections made will translate into lasting business growth, urging SMEs to formalise and stay visible.

 
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