By Godfrey Gusha
Harare – Hundreds of cross-border traders in Harare province yesterday received funds under the US$200,000 Cross-Border Economic Development Revolving Fund, officially marking the start of disbursements in the capital since the program was launched in May this year.
The initiative, introduced through the guidance of President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and facilitated by his special adviser, Dr. Paul Tungwarara, is designed to empower small-scale traders and stimulate grassroots economic growth.
“This money I will use to boost my business, and we thank the President and Dr. Tungwarara for this initiative. We really appreciate being remembered,” said one of the beneficiaries. Another expressed gratitude, adding, “We want to thank our national chairman, Mr. David Masomere, for standing with us in both good and hard times.”
National Chairman Mr. David “DJ” Masomere emphasized responsible use of the funds.
“We want our country to benefit from this fund, and as cross-borders, we must also benefit. To ease operations, we appeal to ZIMRA to establish one search point at the border to avoid unnecessary delays caused by multiple roadblocks,” he said.
The revolving fund is viewed as a milestone in promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and financial inclusion. It directly supports the government’s Vision 2030 goal of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income society by the year 2030.
While traders welcomed the initiative, they highlighted the need for smoother customs procedures to enhance efficiency and reduce operational challenges.
Looking ahead, stakeholders remain optimistic that the revolving fund will not only uplift individual businesses but also strengthen Zimbabwe’s informal trading sector, a crucial pillar of the national economy.
