Buy Zimbabwe has announced significant changes to its operations, focusing on improving support for local entrepreneurs and expanding its influence beyond Harare. After 13 years of promoting the preference for locally produced goods, the organization is restructuring to better align with evolving market trends and to provide broader access to markets for emerging products.
The initiative, which has seen local products claim over 50% of shelf space in many categories, now faces the challenge of ensuring that entrepreneurs—especially from young, female, and small-to-medium enterprises—have the support needed to grow and reach new consumers.
In a press statement Buy Zimbabwe said as part of this transformation, Munyaradzi Hwengwere will assume both the role of CEO and Chairman, while Alois Burutsa, previously General Manager, transitions to Marketing and Sales Consultant.
In collaboration with stakeholders, Buy Zimbabwe said has also commissioned Select Research to conduct a detailed study on consumer preferences for both new and established local brands. The results will guide the rebranding of the Buy Zimbabwe Awards to the Zimbrands Awards, which will now include awards held in Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare, and Masvingo, before culminating in the national awards in Harare.
