Ecobank, Africa’s leading Pan-African bank, continues to invest in women’s financial inclusion through its Ellevate programme. The initiative promotes entrepreneurship, productivity, and excellence for women-led businesses across the continent. In Zimbabwe, that commitment takes a practical form. Ecobank will host Women’s Marketplace Day on Saturday, 28 March, in partnership with the Organisation of Women in International Trade (OWIT) Zimbabwe at their Borrowdale, Harare headquarters.
The event celebrates International Women’s Month and offers a market-driven platform that supports and elevates women. “The initiative is the third edition of a noble programme that has gained momentum after two marketplace Days were held in Harare and Bulawayo in 2024,” Ecobank Zimbabwe Managing Director, Mr Moses Kurenjekwa, said.
“The event is open to the public and intentionally designed not only as a celebration, but as a structured opportunity for women entrepreneurs to connect directly with customers, buyers, and potential partners who can turn ideas into sustainable business growth,” he explained.
Ahead of the event, Ecobank announced that nearly 200 exhibitors will participate. These exhibitors will bring a wide range of women-led and women-owned products and services. The marketplace also expects hundreds of buyers and members of the public.
The event is positioned as a high-impact gathering where women can showcase their offerings and secure meaningful, real sales opportunities. “I urge buyers and members of the public to come in their numbers to support the women. The marketplace model only succeeds and achieves impact when customers show up to support,” Mr Moses Kurenjekwa emphasised.
OWIT Zimbabwe President Buhlebenkosi Ostlea Nyathi commended Ecobank Zimbabwe for funding what she called a vital initiative. She said it aligns with OWIT’s focus on empowering women in enterprise. Marketplace Day, she noted, also supports OWIT’s vision of promoting excellence and international trade. It creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to display products and reach broader markets.
“OWIT Zimbabwe commends Ecobank for funding this vital initiative,” she said. “This programme complements our empowerment efforts for women in enterprise. It aligns with our vision to promote excellence and international trade. Women get to showcase their products and connect with a broader market.”
She added that OWIT appreciates Ecobank for supporting women through tailored programmes. These programmes have made a real difference in women’s entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe. She also expressed satisfaction that the partnership has grown since a similar initiative in 2024.
“This marketplace event follows a similar one we hosted in 2024,” she said. “We are happy that our partnership has continued to grow, and we congratulate Ecobank for sustaining the momentum.”
At the heart of the Women’s Marketplace Day is the chance for exhibitors to showcase and sell their products to a wide audience. This includes male and female buyers, members of the public, and potential business collaborators. Ecobank Zimbabwe Managing Director, Mr Moses Kurenjekwa, stated that the inclusive nature of the event is meant to foster community support for women-owned and women-led enterprises. It also aims to strengthen a culture of productive entrepreneurship, where women’s businesses are celebrated and given market visibility and customer attention.
“Exhibition is free, attendance is also free. We encourage women entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity to shine. The marketplace initiative offers endless possibilities and is a good opportunity for women to showcase and sell their products and services”, said Mr Murenjekwa
Beyond selling, Mr Kurenjekwa said the marketplace will also serve as a learning platform. Women entrepreneurs can exchange ideas and gain practical insights. Whether already trading or planning to start, there is something to take away.
“The event is also a good platform for those willing to learn from others through idea exchange and experience sharing,” she said. “Whether you are already in business or you want to start one, the marketplace event gives you a good opportunity to learn and get inspired.”
Ecobank Zimbabwe Managing Director, Mr Moses Kurenjekwa, attributed their sustained women empowerment approach to programmes that go beyond publicity. He explained that empowerment requires both financial access and business capability. He said their Ellevate programme has been central in supporting women in enterprise. The programme provides funding, training, and networking elements that help businesses grow stronger and more competitive in the market.
“For years, we have prioritised initiatives that support women in enterprise. Our Ellevate programme has been instrumental in helping women gain access to essential resources, training, and networks. These can significantly boost their businesses.”
Mr Kurenjekwa said Ecobank is excited to take the OWIT Zimbabwe partnership further. He expressed confidence that the marketplace will again generate meaningful outcomes for women exhibitors.
“We are excited to elevate this drive with the third edition of the marketplace partnership with OWIT Zimbabwe. We look forward to seeing women exhibit and sell their products and services.”
The duo reinforced their call. They urged Zimbabweans to attend and support women-owned and women-led businesses.
Aiming to make the event memorable, Ecobank and OWIT Zimbabwe announced that the marketplace will open from 10am to 5pm.
