ZimTrade, together with the Netherlands Embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust, Hivos and PUM signed the implementation agreement for the 2020 Food for Export Masterclass on 29 January 2020, in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The programme is designed to build capacity of 20 female entrepreneurs in various aspects of horticulture, dairy production, food processing, and food export business.
The target is to transform these 20 women-owned agri-food enterprises into successful exporters using the latest production methods and business practices.
The programme 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.
Speaking during the signing of the implementation agreement in Harare, ZimTrade CEO, Allan Majuru, said supporting women-led businesses is crucial in strengthening Zimbabwe’s economy.
“We believe that female empowerment is an integral part of Zimbabwe’s economic development,” he said, adding that, “The food for export masterclass 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 improves, but with more 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.
How to apply
Applicants must complete the Food for Export Masterclass application form and submit to har-fem2020@minbuza.nl or hand deliver it to ZADT at 44 The Chase, Mount Pleasant, Harare clearly marked Food for Export Masterclass 2020. Deadline for applications is 21 February 2020.
Shortlisted applicants will be notified by email by Friday 26 February. Site visits to the farms/business premises will be conducted at the discretion of the convenors as part of the final selection process.
Publish Date: Wednesday 05 February 2020
