Bulawayo Launches SIYB Training to Empower MSMEs

In a bid to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bulawayo, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MWACSMED) in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and other stakeholders, officially launched the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) training program on Thursday at the Bulawayo Club.

The launch, officiated by Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, marked a significant milestone in efforts to capacitate MSMEs and transition the informal sector to formal structures. The program is designed to equip participants with skills essential for economic development and job creation, particularly for women and youth.

“This initiative is a step towards achieving the objectives outlined in the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1),” said Minister Ncube.

She added, “The informal economy contributes 61% of our country’s GDP, and empowering MSMEs is key to our economic growth. We are committed to providing skills, safe working spaces, market linkages, funding, and sustainable infrastructure to both formal and informal businesses.”

Minister Ncube emphasised the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in fostering economic growth. She called on stakeholders to address issues affecting the informal sector, including access to funding, markets, and formalisation opportunities.

“I envision Bulawayo becoming a model of economic excellence, attracting more foreign direct investments and growing our Gross Domestic Product,” said the minister. “These trainings are not only an eye-opener for entrepreneurs but also a catalyst for broadening their business horizons.”

The SIYB training is part of a broader government initiative that includes the Reviewed MSME Policy (2020-2024), which focuses on 12 strategic pillars supporting the growth and development of MSMEs. The Ministry is also working on validating the Broad-Based Economic Empowerment Framework to enhance women’s participation in key sectors such as mining, tourism, and agriculture.

One of the training beneficiaries, Nolwazi Mpofu an entrepreneur specialising in detergent making, expressed gratitude for the program.

“This training has been a game changer for me,” she said. “I now understand how to manage my business better and access new markets. My goal is to export my products within the next five years.”

The event highlighted the role of international partnerships in advancing Zimbabwe’s economic aspirations. Minister Ncube applauded the ILO for its continued support, stating, “Their initiatives complement government efforts and align with our vision of creating sustainable livelihoods and decent work for all.”

The government is also consulting stakeholders on strategies to formalize the informal sector. According to Minister Ncube, these efforts aim to support informal workers, increase their incomes, and provide them with decent working spaces.

In her concluding remarks, Minister Ncube urged entrepreneurs to remain resolute in their endeavors. “Let us work together to formalize the informal sector and create an environment where businesses thrive. The government is fully committed to supporting your aspirations,” she said.

The SIYB training is expected to create ripple effects in Bulawayo’s economy by fostering entrepreneurship, formalizing informal businesses, and driving job creation in alignment with the NDS1 goals.