The business community in Zambezi says negative public perception and bureaucracy are affecting the growth of indigenous businesses in the region. 

Owning a business is not easy for many, and the challenge is believed to be bigger for indigenous business owners, who are expected to prove beyond doubt that their businesses would stand the test of time. 

Indigenous business owners in the Zambezi Region are no exception. 

They believe that the perception has deprived them of benefitting from available incentives and opportunities.

Other challenges involve the complicated regulations and requirements that usually sideline the small and medium enterprise sector.

The business community believes that their biggest customer base is from neighbouring Zambia. 

They have expressed appreciation to the government for the good relations it has maintained with its neighbours, resulting in a boost in their business activities.