The National Certification Ceremony for Financial Education Trainers held in Bulawayo on 23 October 2025 marked a significant step in Zimbabwe's journey towards inclusive economic empowerment. Led by the International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs and supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the event celebrated the certification of 22 trainers and 250 entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to strengthen financial literacy, promote sustainable enterprise development, and empower women and youth across the country.
The ceremony highlighted Zimbabwe's commitment to financial inclusion and sustainable development.
Ms. Philile Masuku, Director of the ILO Country Office, emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative:
"Financial education is more than just understanding money, it is about empowering people to make informed financial decisions, managing risks, and to seize opportunities for growth."
She celebrated the programme's success, noting that 1,017 entrepreneurs had been trained, resulting in 2,246 jobs created, with 80% of enterprises sustaining operations for over a year.
© KB Mpofu
Hon. Judith Ncube, Minister of State for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, echoed the importance of financial literacy in driving inclusive development:
"Financial education is the cornerstone of sustainable economic development… enabling individuals, particularly women and youth, to make informed financial decisions, manage resources effectively, and build resilient businesses."
She also reminded the newly certified trainers of their role:
"You are now ambassadors of financial literacy and enterprise development… Cascade this training to communities and grassroots entrepreneurs, especially women and youth."
These remarks reflect a shared vision: building a financially educated, resilient, and inclusive Zimbabwe where women and youth are empowered to lead economic transformation.
About the SEDWAY Programme:
The Sustainable Enterprise Development for Women and Youth (SEDWAY) Project, 2022 - 2026, funded by the African Development Bank. This four-year project is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation; Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Small and Medium Enterprise Development; Ministry of Mines and Mining Development; Ministry of Finance and Economic Development; Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and Employers, Workers, and informal economy organizations. The Project is being implemented in the districts of Mutasa (Hauna), Mutoko, Masvingo, Bulawayo, Hurungwe (Karoi), and Umguza. The Project components include, (i) upgrading an existing a horticulture anchor enterprise in Mutoko, (ii) establishing a new horticulture anchor enterprise in Hauna, (iii) establishing safe markets in Masvingo and Bulawayo, (iv) establishing a dairy anchor enterprise in Umguza, (v) promoting sustainable mining practices in Karoi and (vi) capacity development of young people through technical skills training.
