Story by Yolanda Moyo
A wave of retooling and recapitalisation within Bulawayo’s garment manufacturing sector is proving to be a catalyst for economic growth and job creation in line with Vision 2030.
Once a hub of textile production, Bulawayo has been steadily revitalising its manufacturing sector.
Key players in the industry have committed significant resources to modernise their operations, leading to increased production capacity, improved product quality and expanded market reach.
The managing director of Carousel Manufacturing, Mr Menfree Tanyanyiwa said, “We are excited by the investment we have made and we are looking at the value of US$1, 2 million by the end of the year. We are automating our operations and we are going to be the first clothing manufacturing company to have a cutting room solution. The cutting room solution will help us in the usage of our fabric automatically. By modernising our operations, we are creating a sustainable business that can compete on a global scale.”
“We invested over US$250 000 last year and we are looking at investing more at the end of this year. As far as the export market is concerned, we sell 50 percent locally and 50 percent exports. With AFCTA and SADC intra trade, we are benefiting a lot as we are getting some duty advantage,” said Archer Clothing’s general production manager, Mr Sumit Sharma.
The resurgence of clothing retailers such as Edgars Limited Stores, has seen downstream medium enterprises also reaping the rewards.
“The investments that are happening in the manufacturing sector are benefiting medium enterprises such as us as we can also invest into our company and employ more people and supply locally manufactured products to the people. This has a ripple effect on the community and the economy,” said Ticoz Manufacturing managing director Mrs Tafadzwa Zimbudzana.
Economist, Mr Stevenson Dlamini highlighted the broader economic implications of the sector’s resurgence.
“By reducing reliance on imports and promoting local production, the industry is helping to strengthen the country’s balance of payments. Furthermore, the creation of employment opportunities, particularly for women, has a positive impact on poverty reduction and social development,” he said.
The revival of David Whitehead’s Chegutu and Kadoma factories is also set to give a major boost to Zimbabwe’s textile industry.
