The Sunday Mail IN today’s rapidly evolving global economy, it is crucial for countries to adapt new ways of doing business to thrive in the face of emerging challenges. Zimbabwe, a nation with immense potential, has witnessed its fair share of economic ups and downs. To reignite the flames of progress, it is imperative for Zimbabweans to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and embrace innovative approaches to doing business. By doing so, Zimbabwe can harness its vast resources, empower its citizens and pave the way to sustainable economic growth. Entrepreneurship lies at the heart of economic transformation. It is a catalyst for job creation, wealth generation and innovation. Zimbabwe boasts a population brimming with talented and resilient individuals who can harness their skills and knowledge to drive progress. By encouraging entrepreneurial endeavours, the Government and relevant stakeholders can create an ecosystem that nurtures and supports budding businesspeople. To unlock the entrepreneurial spirit, Zimbabwe must focus on fostering a culture that values risk taking and innovation. This starts with educational reforms that emphasise entrepreneurial skills and mindset from early stages. By including entrepreneurship programmes in schools and universities, the younger generation can develop the necessary skills — including critical thinking, problem solving and adaptability — to thrive in a dynamic business environment. In addition to education, the Government should implement policies that promote ease of doing business. Streamlining bureaucratic processes, reducing red tape and providing access to affordable credit are essential steps in creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs. Targeted incentives and tax breaks can encourage investment in key sectors, foster growth and attract both domestic and foreign entrepreneurs. In this digital age, technology has become a driving force for business innovation and growth. Embracing technological advancements can propel Zimbabwe into the global arena and boost its competitiveness. This requires a concerted effort to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity. Zimbabwe can leverage on technology to disrupt traditional industries and create new opportunities. E-commerce platforms can open doors for small businesses to reach a wider customer base, both domestically and internationally. By embracing digital payments and financial technology, entrepreneurs can overcome the limitations of traditional banking systems, facilitating secure and efficient transactions. Furthermore, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and renewable energy present immense potential for Zimbabwe’s economic development. Investing in research and development programmes, and providing support for tech start-ups can spur innovation, leading to the creation of cutting-edge solutions that address local challenges. Supporting small and medium enterprises Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of many thriving economies worldwide. In Zimbabwe, SMEs account for a significant portion of employment and contribute to gross domestic product growth. By supporting and empowering these enterprises, Zimbabwe can foster economic resilience and inclusive growth. Access to finance remains a major challenge for SMEs. To address this, the Government and financial institutions should collaborate to establish dedicated funds and loan schemes tailored to the needs of small businesses. Additionally, capacity-building programmes that provide training and mentorship can equip entrepreneurs with the skills required to effectively manage and grow their ventures. Building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem necessitates collaboration among various stakeholders. The Government, the private sector, the academia and civil society must work together to create synergies, share knowledge and pool resources. Collaboration can be in the form of public-private partnerships, mentorship programmes and business incubators that provide guidance and support to entrepreneurs. Moreover, networking events, conferences and trade fairs can serve as platforms for entrepreneurs to connect with potential partners, investors and customers. These interactions foster exchange of ideas, promote innovation and facilitate market access, both locally and globally. Zimbabwe stands at a critical juncture in its economic journey. Embracing new ways of doing business and cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit is the key to unlocking its true potential. By supporting entrepreneurship, harnessing technology, empowering SMEs and fostering collaboration, Zimbabwe can pave the way to sustainable economic growth, job creation and improved livelihoods for its citizens. Now is the time for Zimbabweans to embrace this transformative mindset and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.