Entrepreneurship lies at the heart of innovation, economic growth, and social transformation. As the world observes Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) from 18–24 November under the theme Entrepreneurship is for Everyone, it is an opportune moment to explore its origins, significance, and implications for societies striving for inclusive development. For Zimbabwe, where entrepreneurship has long served as a tool for survival amidst economic challenges, the celebration is of unique importance. It is not just a global event; it is a call to action, encouraging individuals and communities to harness their creativity and resilience to foster growth and well-being.
In this article, we examine the roots and global significance of GEW, explore its alignment with the principles of human flourishing, and contextualise its relevance to Zimbabwe. In a nation where unemployment is high and innovation is crucial for progress, GEW serves as a reminder of the transformative power of entrepreneurship.
Origins, global significance of GEW
GEW was established in 2008 as a collaborative initiative by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation in the United States and the UK-based organisation Make Your Mark. The initiative sought to cultivate an entrepreneurial culture globally by connecting aspiring and established entrepreneurs with opportunities, networks, and resources. Today, GEW has grown into a worldwide movement celebrated in more than 180 countries, engaging over 10 million participants annually through thousands of events, workshops, and competitions.
The week-long event champions four primary themes:
Education, Ecosystems, Inclusion, and Policy: These themes underscore the importance of equipping individuals with entrepreneurial skills, fostering collaborative environments, ensuring equitable access to opportunities, and shaping policies that enable entrepreneurial success.
GEW transcends traditional notions of business creation, emphasising entrepreneurship as a mindset that empowers people to solve problems, seize opportunities, and create value across economic, social, and environmental domains.
By advocating for inclusivity, this year’s theme encourages broader participation, recognising that anyone regardless of background or circumstances, can contribute to and benefit from entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Entrepreneurship and human flourishing: The principles of entrepreneurship align closely with the concept of human flourishing, which encompasses happiness, purpose, health, relationships, and stability. Entrepreneurship serves as a catalyst for flourishing by empowering individuals to pursue meaningful work, enhance their economic security, and contribute positively to their communities.
For instance, creating a thriving small business can provide a sense of purpose, deepen social connections through networking, and improve financial stability—all critical components of flourishing. Furthermore, entrepreneurship often addresses systemic issues, such as unemployment or environmental degradation, creating solutions that benefit society at large.
The Zimbabwean context
In Zimbabwe, entrepreneurship is both a necessity and a lifeline. With formal employment opportunities limited, the informal sector accounts for a significant share of economic activity, from street vending to small-scale farming.
While often born out of necessity, these enterprises underscore Zimbabweans’ resourcefulness and adaptability. However, challenges persist. Limited access to capital, bureaucratic red tape, and fluctuating economic conditions create significant barriers for aspiring entrepreneurs.
At the same time, initiatives like GEW offer hope by promoting an entrepreneurial culture that transcends survival-based activities and encourages innovative, growth-oriented ventures.
The relevance of GEW to Zimbabwe cannot be overstated. By emphasising inclusivity, the event highlights the potential of women, youth, and marginalised groups to drive economic transformation.
For instance, rural women in Zimbabwe have been instrumental in agricultural entrepreneurship, spearheading community-based projects like poultry farming and organic vegetable production.
These initiatives not only enhance their financial stability but also strengthen food security at a local level.
Fostering entrepreneurial ecosystem
A thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem requires coordinated efforts from government, educational institutions, business, and civil society. GEW presents an opportunity to showcase success stories, share best practices, and initiate discussions on policies that can catalyse entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe.
Education and skills development
Entrepreneurial education is essential in equipping individuals with the knowledge and confidence to start and sustain businesses. Zimbabwean universities, such as Midlands State University (MSU), have integrated entrepreneurship into their curricula, aligning with the national Education 5.0 framework, which prioritises innovation and industrialisation. Additionally, vocational training centres across the country are teaching practical skills like carpentry, sewing, and mechanics, enabling participants to establish viable small enterprises.
During GEW, workshops and mentorship programmes could focus on enhancing these educational initiatives, particularly in rural areas where access to formal training is limited.
Access to capital and resources
One of the greatest hurdles Zimbabwean entrepreneurs face is access to affordable financing. While some progress has been made through microfinance institutions and revolving loan funds, many still struggle to secure the capital needed to grow their businesses.
GEW can amplify discussions on innovative financing models, such as crowdfunding platforms, impact investing, and public-private partnerships. The success of platforms like EcoCash, a mobile money solution, demonstrates the potential for technological innovation to bridge gaps in financial inclusion.
Policy advocacy
Policy reforms are crucial to fostering a business-friendly environment. Simplifying the process of registering a business, reducing tax burdens on small enterprises, and offering incentives for innovation can spur entrepreneurial activity. Zimbabwe’s participation in international trade agreements, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area, also offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to expand into regional markets. GEW provides a platform for policymakers and business leaders to collaborate on strategies that maximise these opportunities.
Promoting social entrepreneurship
In addition to traditional profit-driven ventures, Zimbabwe can benefit from fostering social entrepreneurship—businesses that prioritise social and environmental impact alongside financial returns. Social enterprises, such as those focused on renewable energy or waste management, address pressing societal challenges while creating jobs and generating income.
For example, the start-up Vimbiso Foundation empowers young Zimbabwean women by teaching them digital skills and connecting them with freelance opportunities. Such initiatives embody the inclusive spirit of GEW, demonstrating how entrepreneurship can uplift individuals and communities.
Celebrating Zimbabwean innovators
As GEW unfolds, it is important to celebrate Zimbabwean entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to their industries and communities. Success stories, such as that of Strive Masiyiwa, founder of Econet Wireless, serve as an inspiration for aspiring business leaders.
At the grassroots level, countless informal entrepreneurs demonstrate resilience and ingenuity daily, from market vendors in Harare to smallholder farmers in Mashonaland. These stories highlight the transformative potential of entrepreneurship when supported by robust ecosystems and inclusive policies.
Conclusion
GEW serves as a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is not just a path to economic growth; it is a tool for human flourishing. For Zimbabwe, the event underscores the importance of nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit that prioritises innovation, inclusivity, and resilience.
By investing in education, expanding access to resources, and advocating for supportive policies, Zimbabwe can empower its citizens to unlock their potential and contribute meaningfully to national development. As GEW highlights this year, entrepreneurship truly is for everyone — a vision that resonates deeply within Zimbabwe’s context of resilience and aspiration.
As the week progresses, let us celebrate entrepreneurship not just as a means of survival but as a vehicle for hope, transformation, and flourishing for all Zimbabweans.
Jongwe is an experienced business consultant with extensive expertise across various industries in Southern Africa, including higher education. — WhatsApp at +27 82 408 3661/ +263 788 016 938 or by e-mail at [email protected]
