Some Zimbabweans, who took part in this year’s annual edition of Zim Expo in Chicago, USA, say they are optimistic about making follow-ups on deals they negotiated during the three-day event, which ended Sunday.

Johnfet Sibanda, a pharmaceutical distributor, says some Zimbabweans living in USA indicated that they would partner with him in enhancing his business that is being affected by the current cash crunch in Zimbabwe where a quasi-currency, the Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), is devastating industries that need foreign currency to buy material from different nations.

“I met a lot of potential clients and business partners. I’m sure that we will pursue our discussions on boosting each other’s businesses. I’m in the pharmaceutical industry and hope to partner with some businesses in USA. This was a great opportunity for me to create links with international businesses.”

Another Zimbabwean entrepreneur, Andile Mpofu who was the 2017 Miss Zimbabwe USA, said a lot of people showed interest in her Africa jewellery, handbags, attire, purses and handbags.

“I’m happy about potential business partners I got here. I will make follow-ups to ensure that the business deals materialize.”

Show organizer, Quite Ncube, said they were impressed about this year’s attendance, which drew people from Canada, Zimbabwe and USA.

“We hope the event will be bigger and better next year. People attending the event had a chance to sample Zimbabwean dishes, drink Zimbabwean beverages and engage in social networking,” said Ncube.

The event ended by the crowning of Nothando Jack as Miss Zimbabwe USA and Chicago Soccer Team as the 2019 Zim Expo Soccer Cup champions.

Nothando walked away with $1,500, a year’s supply of Honde Valley Foods and cosmetics from Jacque Mgido, a beauty specialist. She will now compete in the Miss Zimbabwe competition back home.

On the other hand, Chicago got $800 and one of the team’s players was voted the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. Ohio came second followed by Atlanta.

Zim Expo, which was launched 20 years ago, is an annual event for business development, social empowerment, equity investments and networking opportunities for Zimbabweans living in various countries. It is held in different cities and features a soccer tournament, business dinner, beauty pageant and other activities.