All set for International Women’s Multisector Conference
STAFF WRITER
Zimbabwean women entrepreneurs are set to join business leaders from across Southern Africa at the third International Women’s Multisector Conference (IWMC) in Johannesburg, South Africa, as regional stakeholders seek to deepen trade, investment and cross-border business partnerships.
The conference, scheduled for July 31 to August 2, is expected to attract delegates from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo and host nation South Africa.
The IWMC was founded by Diana Musara, director of Yes We Can Business Women Network in South Africa, and Dr Miriam Mukorombindo, director of Hearts Unlimited in Harare.
Organisers say this year’s gathering will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, corporate executives, development organisations and industry experts to explore practical strategies for accelerating women-led enterprise growth and expanding regional market access.
The 2026 edition will be held under the theme: “Capital Without Borders: Strategic Relationships for Sustainable Wealth.”
Nedbank South Africa is the conference’s strategic sponsor and will showcase a range of financial products and business solutions tailored to support women entrepreneurs across the region.
Conference coordinator Pamela Gwanzura said the event has evolved into a high-level platform focused on addressing the practical challenges facing women-owned businesses.
“The conference brings together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, policymakers, development organisations and industry experts. It is designed for women-led businesses and focuses on practical solutions to enterprise growth, access to regional markets, investment readiness and long-term business sustainability,” she said.
Lauren Deva, Executive: Client Value Proposition and Strategy – Nedbank SME, said the bank’s sponsorship reflects its commitment to strengthening women-owned businesses, which remain central to economic development.
“Nedbank is proud to sponsor the International Women’s Multisector Conference, as it aligns strongly with our commitment to the development of women-owned and women-led businesses. We believe SMEs are the heartbeat of inclusive economic growth, and through partnerships like this, we are able to support entrepreneurs with access to knowledge, networks and opportunities that help them build sustainable businesses,” she said.
Yes We Can Business Women Network director Prisca Nyabvure said Nedbank’s participation would strengthen discussions around financing, investment and business expansion.
“We appreciate Nedbank’s support for this year’s conference. Their participation will enrich discussions on access to finance, innovation, investment readiness and business growth. As we mark Mandela Month and prepare for Women’s Month, partnerships with the private sector remain critical in creating platforms where women and youth entrepreneurs can engage, learn and build meaningful business relationships,” she said.
