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Monica Cheru-Mpambawashe recently in Luanda, Angola
Nine Zimbabwean entities in various fields that took part in the just ended International Fair of Luanda (FILDA) in Angola have expressed optimism at their prospects of creating viable supply chains in that country. The fair ran from 22 to 27 July.
Represented were Colcom, Cafca, Justine Clothing, Paramount Garments, Femina Garments, Duzzit Clothiers, Dendairy, OCIN and Capital Timber.
“I am surprised at the interest and acceptance. The competition is there but I am convinced that we can comfortably hold our own,” said Justine Clothing managing director Mr David Mouat.

Several Angolan business people said the products from Zimbabwe were of the highest squality and they saw no reason why the market should not respond positively.
Some of the exhibitors indicated that they had secured orders while one organisation said they had already started distributing their products in Luanda and were using the fair to grow their market base.

Other countries exhibiting at the fair included South Africa and Brazil which both appeared to have larger delegations than Zimbabwe.
In 2013 FILDA attracted 1000 exhibitors representing six countries and 60 000 visitors.

Angola is currently going through an economic boom with cranes all over the capital city and beyond as the government works to rebuild a country that was mired in civil war for decades. The economy is buoyed by oil, diamonds and other natural resources.