OWIT Zimbabwe Empowers Women Entrepreneurs with Vital Climate Awareness Training

Buntu Pearl
5 days ago
2 min read

HARARE, Zimbabwe — The Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) Zimbabwe reached a significant milestone today, Saturday, January 24, 2026, by successfully hosting a high-level Climate Awareness Training for Women in Business.

The one-day intensive workshop, held at the Cresta Lodge Hotel in Masasa, brought together women entrepreneurs, policy experts, and academics to bridge the gap between business operations and environmental sustainability.

Global Expertise Meets Local Action

The training was facilitated by Prof. Ven Tauringana, Professor of Accounting and Sustainability at the University of Southampton (UK). A renowned expert in sustainability reporting, Prof. Tauringana guided participants through the complexities of climate change, emphasizing how women-led businesses can adapt to environmental shifts while maintaining profitability.

The program was bolstered by a technical team from the University of Zimbabwe, providing localized expertise in:

Climate action and green finance.
Sustainable human resources.
Green skills development.

Government and Policy Support

Underscoring the national importance of the initiative, the event featured key contributions from senior government officials. Dr. Mavengere, Principal Director in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, delivered vital policy insights into Zimbabwe's national climate action efforts.

The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development was also represented by its Chief Director, who highlighted the government's commitment to ensuring women are not left behind in the transition to a "green" economy.

Empowering the Future

The event host, Buhlebenkosi Ostlea Nyathi (President of OWIT Zimbabwe), and program host Takemore Mazuruse (MD of Esteem Communications), noted that the training is part of a broader movement to equip Zimbabwean women with the tools needed to lead in international trade under increasingly volatile climate conditions.

A Catalyst for Change: Celebrating the Impact of OWIT Zimbabwe

The successful hosting of the Climate Awareness Training is yet another testament to the transformative role the Organisation of Women in International Trade (OWIT) Zimbabwe plays in the national economy. By bridging the gap between high-level academic expertise and the practical needs of women entrepreneurs, OWIT is doing far more than just sharing information—it is building a resilient, future-proof foundation for Zimbabwe’s business leaders.

Through the visionary leadership of President Buhlebenkosi Ostlea Nyathi and her dedicated team, OWIT Zimbabwe has become a vital catalyst for empowerment. Their commitment to ensuring that women are not just participants, but leaders in the global green transition, is commendable. By providing access to world-class facilitators like Prof. Ven Tauringana and fostering strategic partnerships with institutions like the University of Southampton and the University of Zimbabwe, OWIT is effectively leveling the playing field.

We applaud OWIT Zimbabwe for its tireless dedication to opening doors, shattering glass ceilings, and ensuring that "Made in Zimbabwe" stands for quality, sustainability, and female excellence on the international stage.