Story by Tafara Chikumira
THE Government’s industrialisation and re-industrialisation drive is gaining traction, with the opening of a new steel processing and wholesale firm expected to spur infrastructure development in Gweru.
The opening of the US$500 000 steel firm by a youthful Zimbabwean has been described as a clear testimony that citizens are warming up to the Second Republic’s mantra of ‘Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo, Ilizwe Lakhiwa Ngabanikazi Bayo.’
“We find pride in driving the development of our country. The development of the country is in the hands of us as Zimbabweans. We are here to support the vision of our President. By focusing on steel products we believe we can play our part in the infrastructure development in our region,” said Fast One Steel director, Mr Parkstone Marecha.
Local business is excited by the growth of industry in Gweru.
“We are indeed happy with the way things are shaping up in our city. This is a first as we used to have steel products at some corner hardware. We believe we are going to see some massive growth as we start getting the necessary products to our doorsteps. The establishment of the firm is a huge step in the right direction indeed,” said ZNCC Midlands provincial chairman, Mr Layton Reid.
The government is equally pleased with the industrial expansion which will culminate in the growth of the Provincial Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“This investment in a steel hardware retailer, recently established and supported by the government, demonstrates the success of policies aimed at promoting economic growth and industrial development. We look forward to this investment underpinning GDP growth.
“This investment is coming at an opportune time, supporting the growth and expansion of the iron and steel value chain, and the attendant import substitution benefits.
“These benefits will support SMEs, youth, and women’s projects, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind,” said
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube.
The establishment of the firm comes at a time when the billion-dollar Dinson Iron and Steel Company is set to become operational after the success of test runs at the Manhize-based plant.
Meanwhile, the Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Owen Ncube has commissioned an Ecobank Gweru branch in line with the government’s devolution thrust.
