The Sunday News
Michael Magoronga, Midlands Correspondent
PREPARATIONS for the 10th edition of the annual Kwekwe Expo, have gone a gear up with organisers indicating that the response from exhibitors has been overwhelming.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing in the mining town on Wednesday, the Kwekwe Expo manager, Mr Eric Msesengwe expressed satisfaction with the number of companies that have so far registered for the annual event slated for 27 to 29 September at Kwekwe Mining Museum.
He said so far, about 40 companies have registered for exhibition at the event.
“We have about 40 companies that have so far registered for this year’s edition. We remain confident that we will reach our target of about 100 exhibitors come the day. We have embarked on outreach programmes where we are targeting small to medium enterprises as well as conscientising the public and businesses on the benefits of attending the Expo,” said Mr Msesengwe.
He said despite the economic challenges, exhibitors were forthcoming.
“The economy is on its recovery path, but despite the challenges, we are very grateful of the response that we have gotten thus far. The preparations are not stopping and we are confident that we will have a successful event where we will be celebrating our 10nth anniversary in existence,” he said.
Mr Msesengwe said for a change, traditional leaders and the junior council will play a critical role at the event.
“We have invited all the chiefs that surround Kwekwe, we have also allowed the junior councillors and legislators to play a role at the event. We will have our usual school quiz programme that replaced the essay competition. So we are ready also on that side,” he said.
He said Zimasco chief executive officer, Mr John Msekiwa will be guest of honour at the Expo Business Conference to be held at Golden Mile.
“We will have a number of speakers including Bulawayo Polytechnic Principal Gilbert Mabasa, Mr Arthur Choga, and Jephter Mhike who will take us through the economic side. We are expecting delegates from across the country if all goes according to plan,” said Mr Msesengwe.
On the entertainment side, Mr Msesengwe said Mbada Dance Ensemble are set to headline a cast of local entertainers set to wow the crowds during the course of the event.
The Mr and Miss Kwekwe Expo is also on the programme.
“As usual we are having our Mr and Miss Expo pageant. This year it will be different as we have roped in the services of a fashion designer who will be showcasing his locally designed clothes,” he said.
The expo is a brainchild of Kwekwe Publicity Association in a quest to bring together local suppliers to consumers. The first exhibition was held in 2001.
