Bulawayo – At least eighty female entrepreneurs successfully completed a six-week Women in Business-Digital Skills Training program in Bulawayo, aimed at equipping them with essential digital tools to grow their businesses.
Officiating at the graduation ceremony, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Permanent Secretary, Dr Mavis Sibanda commended the women entrepreneurs for committing themselves to transforming their businesses through digital skills, noting that digital literacy is no longer a luxury but an essential tool for success in today’s world.
“Today, we acknowledge that digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity, a fundamental tool for thriving in our modern world.
“As such these graduates have advanced beyond basic computer use and internet navigation since they were trained in coding, digital marketing, design, e-commerce, and branding skills which are expected to enhance business visibility, increase sales, reduce costs, and strengthen brand identity,” she said.
She advanced that the digital world offered extraordinary potential for education, economic empowerment, innovation and expression especially for women and girls.
“Globally, digital skills are a prerequisite for active economic participation and should be embraced as a new form of literacy. This goes beyond technical proficiency, as it bridges skills gaps, fosters growth and lays the foundation for digital marketing and beyond,” she said.
Dr Sibanda further commended the program’s Trainer, Sharon Mauleke, founder of Sharon- Tech Innovations, for pioneering the initiative targeting women and encouraged Ms. Mauleke to continue the work, refine the program, and expand it to reach more women across Zimbabwe.
She highlighted that the training was a vital step in empowering entrepreneurs to leverage technology for business growth in the country.
She added that the graduates can now build an online presence via social media, websites and e-commerce platforms to promote their products and services while sharing their experiences with a global audience.
Several graduates also expressed excitement about applying their new skills. “The digital marketing skills I learned will help me reach more customers online and grow my business,” said one participant, while another noted that learning coding and e-commerce has opened doors to selling products beyond their local community.
The program is part of ongoing efforts by Government and partners to promote women entrepreneurship and digital literacy. It also aligns with Zimbabwe’s vision 2030 strategy, which emphasizes production-led growth, job creation, and economic empowerment.
Organizers revealed that follow-up support, including mentorship and online resources, will be offered to ensure participants fully implement their skills and continue scaling their businesses. Plans are also underway to expand the program to other provinces, aiming to train more women across the country.
The graduation marks a milestone in strengthening women-led businesses in Zimbabwe, equipping them with the tools to compete effectively in an increasingly digital economy.
