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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 26714, member: 2262"] More than 40 creative entrepreneurs from across Zimbabwe recently completed specialized business training designed to help them launch profitable ventures from their innovative concepts. The training took place during a seven-day session in Bulawayo organized by Fine Touch Development Trust. This business development program brought together the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and certified trainers from the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) initiative. At the closing event, Deputy Director Mr. Tichafa Mujuru delivered remarks prepared by Potraz Director-General Dr. Gift Machengete. He congratulated participants for their exceptional performance in technology competitions. The intensive program equipped these entrepreneurs with fundamental strategies for transforming their creative ideas into viable commercial enterprises. Five standout innovators impressed judges with their technology demonstrations and business pitch presentations. Dr. Machengete emphasized that participants gained crucial knowledge and resources necessary for building sustainable companies. He praised the dedication shown throughout the training period. The Director-General stressed the importance of ethical business practices and regulatory compliance, noting these elements establish trust and credibility essential for long-term success. He encouraged participants to measure business impact not just through profits but through customer relationships. The Potraz leader reaffirmed his organization's commitment to supporting innovation and inclusion through the Universal Services Fund (USF), which helps extend services to underserved communities. He acknowledged entrepreneurship presents challenges but maintained that persistence, creativity and proper planning enable businesses to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe's economy. Dr. Machengete expressed confidence that many participants have the potential to become visionary business leaders. Frank Makeba, who ranked among the top five innovators, presented his company Hurudza AI. The platform serves as an artificial intelligence contact center for farmers, allowing them to report issues via SMS, voice, or web interfaces. The system provides automated agricultural advice directly to users' mobile devices. Makeba noted the platform supports local languages, making it accessible to more farmers across the country. With agriculture employing 60 percent of Zimbabwe's population and over 1.5 million farmers nationwide, Makeba calculated significant revenue potential. He projected that if just five percent of Zimbabwean farmers subscribed at US$5 monthly, the platform could generate US$375,000 in monthly revenue. The innovation represents the practical application of skills developed during the business training program. [/QUOTE]

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