Sithembinkosi L Jiyane
Bulawayo played host today to the Insurance & Microfinance Expo 2025, an event that brought together insurers, microfinance institutions, SMEs, and corporate brands for a vibrant showcase of products, services, and business insights.
The programme opened with company setups, before executives from the Zimbabwe Association of Microfinance Institutions (ZAMFI) officially welcomed delegates. They highlighted the expo’s role in fostering collaboration and innovation within Zimbabwe’s financial sector.
Facilitating the proceedings was Mr. T. Madhlayo, who introduced keynote speakers that underscored the importance of financial inclusivity, resilience, and partnerships to drive economic growth.
The expo was hosted by the Progressively Foundation, in partnership with ZAMFI and the Insurance Institute of Zimbabwe. Its founder and director, Thabani Madhlayo, said the event was designed to strengthen SMEs and the wider business community.
“As Progressively Foundation, we are proud to be hosting this expo in collaboration with key industry players,” said Madhlayo.
He explained that the main goal of the event is to give entrepreneurs, vendors, and investors of all levels access to opportunities that can help sustain and grow their ventures.
“The primary aim of this event is to promote the growth of SMEs and support all players in the business community, whether they are vendors, established entrepreneurs, or investors,” he added.
Madhlayo further emphasized the importance of bringing microfinance institutions and insurers under one roof to create a convenient, tailor-made hub for financial services.
“When we bring microfinances and insurers together, we are creating a one-stop center where people can easily find services that fit their budget and business goals,” he explained.
The event successfully combined professional dialogue with interactive brand showcases, giving SMEs, corporates, and financial institutions a platform to connect with clients and strengthen networks.
Among the exhibitors was Baliseng Moyo, Managing Director of Neat Craft Creations, a versatile entrepreneur who designs and produces handmade products such as bags, clothes, bangles, shoes, and fascinators. Beyond production, she also trains others in craft-making.
“I make bags, clothes, bangles, shoes, and fascinators, and I also teach people how to make these products,” Moyo said.
She revealed that her entrepreneurial journey began in 2019 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and despite challenges, she has remained committed to sustaining her business.
“I started my business in 2019 during COVID-19, and I am still running it up to now,” she explained.
Moyo admitted that business has slowed due to the prevailing economic situation and increased competition.
“The business is slow because people do not have money, and there are now many people making the same products,” she said.
However, she stressed that her focus remains on creating unique products to stand out in the market.
“I try by all means to make my products unique,” she emphasized.
Also showcasing at the expo was Khaya Arts Production, represented by Marketing Manager Nanziwe Nyoni. She described the company as a registered entertainment service provider that continues to make waves in the arts industry.
“Khaya Arts is a registered company that provides entertainment services,” Nyoni said.
She noted that the group had recently achieved recognition through multiple awards, including Dance Group of the Year and Best Choreographer of the Year, accolades credited to their director, Mr. Future Dube.
“We recently won awards for Dance Group of the Year and Best Choreographer of the Year, led by our director Mr. Future Dube,” she explained.
Nyoni added that Khaya Arts provides entertainment at weddings, corporate functions, and traditional ceremonies such as lobola, while also investing in education through training programs in schools.
“We provide entertainment at weddings, corporate events, lobola ceremonies, and we also teach in schools,” she said.
The Insurance & Microfinance Expo 2025 thus proved to be more than a showcase, it was a convergence of business, creativity, and innovation, offering opportunities for growth, collaboration, and resilience in Bulawayo’s evolving economy.
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