Zimbabwe's Business Expo is heading to South Africa this year, creating a super-charged platform for connecting diaspora entrepreneurs with investment opportunities back home. The event, organized by the Zimbabweans in the Diaspora Organisation (ZIDO), will take place on May 24 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
After a successful launch in Birmingham, England, last October, the expo aims to draw even more stakeholders interested in Zimbabwe's economic growth. ZIDO chairman Blessed Kapesa highlighted the event's mission to bridge the gap between Zimbabweans abroad and potential investments.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has been actively supporting these efforts by establishing a dedicated diaspora investment desk. Remittances from Zimbabweans working overseas have become a critical economic lifeline. In February 2025, diaspora contributions hit $165 million, marking a 7.5% year-on-year increase and accounting for 17% of total foreign currency receipts.
Last year saw a massive surge in diaspora remittances, with inflows reaching a record $2.2 billion - a whopping 22% jump from 2023. Zimbabweans spread across South Africa, the UK, the US, Australia, Canada, and the UAE are sending money home to support families, education, healthcare, and business investments. The expo aims to combat misconceptions and showcase the real investment potential waiting back home.
After a successful launch in Birmingham, England, last October, the expo aims to draw even more stakeholders interested in Zimbabwe's economic growth. ZIDO chairman Blessed Kapesa highlighted the event's mission to bridge the gap between Zimbabweans abroad and potential investments.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has been actively supporting these efforts by establishing a dedicated diaspora investment desk. Remittances from Zimbabweans working overseas have become a critical economic lifeline. In February 2025, diaspora contributions hit $165 million, marking a 7.5% year-on-year increase and accounting for 17% of total foreign currency receipts.
Last year saw a massive surge in diaspora remittances, with inflows reaching a record $2.2 billion - a whopping 22% jump from 2023. Zimbabweans spread across South Africa, the UK, the US, Australia, Canada, and the UAE are sending money home to support families, education, healthcare, and business investments. The expo aims to combat misconceptions and showcase the real investment potential waiting back home.
