Source: ZITF releases comprehensive 2026 calendar – herald Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Senior Business Writer THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has unveiled a comprehensive calendar of key events for the 2026 edition, setting the stage for a dynamic showcase that reinforces the fair’s growing stature as a regional business and networking hub. The 66th edition, […]
THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has unveiled a comprehensive calendar of key events for the 2026 edition, setting the stage for a dynamic showcase that reinforces the fair’s growing stature as a regional business and networking hub.
The 66th edition, running under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,” will be held from April 20 to 25 at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City in Bulawayo.
The programme features conferences, forums, networking sessions and high-level engagements designed to attract both local and international participants.
Dr Zhemu Soda
ZITF remains one of the largest multi-sectoral trade exhibitions in sub-Saharan Africa, drawing exhibitors, investors and business delegates from across the region and beyond.
According to the events directory released yesterday, the business programme opens on Monday, April 20, with the Rural Industrialisation Conference at Hall 2, followed by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) Exhibitors and Marketers Cocktail later in the morning.
The Rural Industrialisation Conference is expected to bring together stakeholders to explore strategies for accelerating value addition and rural economic transformation.
Momentum builds on Tuesday with the Youth in Business Conference, Buyers Speed Networking session and the traditional ZITF 2026 Welcome Cocktail, to be hosted in partnership with the British Embassy in Zimbabwe.
The day will also feature the Innovators Forum and Hackathon, a platform aimed at promoting technological advancement and entrepreneurship among young innovators.
The flagship ZITF International Business Conference — one of the fair’s premier events — is scheduled for Wednesday and will bring together policymakers, industry leaders and investors to deliberate on economic trends and investment opportunities.
The ZITF Diplomats Forum, also set for Wednesday, will facilitate engagement between Zimbabwe and the international diplomatic community, fostering dialogue on trade and investment cooperation.
The official opening ceremony will be held on Thursday at the Main Arena and is expected to attract high-level dignitaries, including Government officials, business leaders and international guests.
Botswana President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko is expected to officially open the event and will, as tradition dictates, tour selected pavilions.
Friday’s programme includes the Connect Africa Symposium, the ZITF Charity Golf Challenge at Bulawayo Country Club and the Zimbabwe-Botswana Business Forum, to be held in partnership with ZimTrade.
The Zimbabwe-Botswana Business Forum is expected to deepen bilateral trade relations and unlock cross-border investment opportunities.
The diverse line-up reflects ZITF’s strategic thrust to position itself not merely as a trade exhibition, but as a comprehensive platform for business development, policy dialogue and innovation.
With preparations at an advanced stage, the 2026 edition is expected to attract increased participation from both local and international exhibitors, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s position in regional and continental trade.
During the latest post-Cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said about 520 exhibitors have registered, surpassing the 486 recorded in 2025.
Of these, 72 are first-time participants, while 49 100 square metres — representing 93 percent of available exhibition space — has already been taken up.
“Additionally, foreign participation is positive, with more than 33 international exhibitors from 16 different countries confirmed, compared to 17 recorded in 2025,” he said.
He said this year’s theme underscores the importance of regional trade, cross-border collaboration and resilient supply chains in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Dr Soda added that engagements are underway with airlines such as Air Zimbabwe, Fastjet and Ethiopian Airlines to increase flight frequency and ensure the smooth movement of delegates and exhibitors during the exhibition period.
