Harare, 30 May 2025 – The People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) successfully hosted a high-level Exports Awareness Seminar on Friday, 30 May 2025, at Cresta Lodge in Msasa, Harare. The event, which ran from 08:00 to 16:30, was part of the Bank’s broader strategy to support the government’s export development agenda and to empower local businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in international markets.
Held under the theme “Innovation and Strategies for Transforming Zimbabwe’s Export Competitiveness and Growth,” the seminar brought together a wide range of stakeholders from across the export value chain. Participants engaged in expert-led discussions on key issues affecting the sector, including the challenges of exporting raw materials, how to begin exporting, strategies for improving value addition, the role of export insurance through the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC), and the current state of horticultural exports, with a focus on GAP certifications.
The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers and panelists, including representatives from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), the Agricultural Marketing Authority, the Horticultural Development Council, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), and ZimTrade, among others. Their insights offered practical guidance and policy perspectives aimed at unlocking Zimbabwe’s export potential.
In remarks delivered on his behalf by Mr. Farai Chirikure, Divisional Director of Corporate and Investment Banking, POSB Chief Executive Officer Mr. Garainashe Changunda reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s exporters.
“Exporters play a pivotal role in our economy. They help create employment, increase foreign exchange earnings, and contribute to the country’s economic growth. Zimbabwe has enormous export potential, and POSB is committed to helping businesses take advantage of these opportunities,” said Mr. Changunda.
“As POSB, we believe the country has what it takes to compete on the global stage. But we must innovate and be ahead of the game. We must invest in quality, in compliance, in logistics, and in partnerships. We must ensure that our exporters, especially small and medium enterprises, have access to the financial tools and knowledge they need to thrive. That’s why we are going beyond traditional banking to convene seminars to create a space where exporters, policymakers, financiers, and development partners can engage meaningfully, share knowledge, and forge solutions.”
In line with this commitment, POSB continues to offer a comprehensive suite of financial solutions tailored to the needs of exporters. These include corporate banking services, multi-currency accounts (USD, EUR, ZAR, among others), competitive exchange rates, and trade finance solutions such as pre- and post-shipment financing and working capital loans. The Bank also facilitates secure international trade through Letters of Credit and efficient payment processing systems.
To ensure broad participation, the seminar was live-streamed on POSB’s official social media platforms, enabling virtual engagement from across the country. You can watch the seminar on POSB’s Facebook Page.
Proceedings during the POSB Export Seminar held in Harare.
