Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE’S thrust on strengthening economic empowerment of the citizenry is in motion, with local entrepreneurs describing the move as critical in sustaining self-reliance projects and productivity.
A latest cabinet report states that certain sectors of the economy will now be fully reserved only for Zimbabweans.
The sectors include artisanal mining, bakeries, barbershops and beauty salons, employment agencies, clearing and custom services, tobacco grading and packaging, pharmaceutical retailing, estate agencies, buses, taxis and car hire, grain milling, quarry and granite mining, among others.
The directive has received the backing of local entrepreneurs.
“This is the right step and an initiative that will also empower us and create opportunities to grow our businesses, so we are anxiously awaiting the implementation processes,” said the Cosmetology Association of Africa chairperson, Ms Jackline Granger said.
The reserved sector regulations are set to propel self-reliant projects.
“The government needs to be applauded for taking such a stance because it will certainly benefit the locals and this is not peculiar to Zimbabwe, as many countries have also embraced the initiative, yielding greater successes,” chairperson, Zimbabwe Network of Customs and Excise Experts, Mr Weekmore Homera said.
Delivering the post cabinet highlights this week, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, clarified the reserved sector policy.
“The measures are designed to empower local citizens while simultaneously safeguarding the country’s investment climate. The government is determined to strike a balance between fostering indigenous participation in key economic sectors and maintaining Zimbabwe’s position as an attractive destination for business,” he said.
With the reserved sector measures in motion, expectations are high that local entrepreneurs will benefit through increased market share for goods and services in line with the government’s thrust of a private sector-led economy.
