By Almot Maqolo.
HARARE – Trade promotion body ZimTrade and Netherlands Embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust, Hivos and PUM yesterday signed the implementation agreement for the 2020 Food for Export Masterclass.
The programme is designed to build capacity of 20 female entrepreneurs in various aspects of horticulture, dairy production, food processing, and food export business. Also, it targets to transform these 20 women-owned agri-food enterprises into successful exporters using the latest production methods and business practices.
Zimtrade signs masterclass deal
It is expected to run for approximately 10 months and selected women owned agri-food enterprises will receive expert mentorship and coaching, site visits, and on-location consulting with Dutch senior experts at the participants’ places of business. Selected women-owned businesses will also receive support from ZimTrade in several areas of export competitiveness such as marketing, branding and negotiation. The programme is also customized to focus on trainings, production methods, value addition, certification, bankable business models and market entry expertise, tailor made to match the female agro-entrepreneur’s needs.
At the signing ceremony, ZimTrade chief executive Allan Majuru said supporting women-led businesses is crucial in strengthening the country’s economy.
“We believe that female empowerment is an integral part of Zimbabwe’s economic development,” he said.
“The food for export master class is one that will provide the right support in training female owned enterprises and ensure they are equipped to continuously satisfy the global market.”
Funded by Hivos and the Netherlands Embassy, the programme aims to equip participants with networking skills and personal development to ensure that the selected participants have capacity to lead, take risks and innovate.
As a technical partner, PUM will provide seasoned Dutch experts in a variety of fields depending on the needs of the 20 participants, but always bringing a deep knowledge of the European market. ZimTrade will also support this objective with training in market research and market entry strategies.
The Netherlands Embassy and Hivos, both of which have track records in promoting gender equality in Zimbabwe, will support the Food for Export Masterclass to ensure that Dutch-Zimbabwean trade improve and have women taking leadership and growing their businesses. With regards to scope and participation, the programme is open to all women from across the country.
To be eligible, applicants must be female and must have traceable experience in fresh produce or dairy value chains. The applicant must also be running their own business or project with the potential to reach export markets.
Knowledge of information and communication technologies and access to internet will also be crucial for in the successful implementation of the programme.
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