Zimbabwe’s clothing sector poised for growth
Story by Grace Sibanda
ZIMBABWE’S clothing sector is poised for growth, with local manufacturers looking at capacity building and employment creation as the country journeys towards an upper-middle income society by 2030.
The clothing industry has seen a massive boost in the post-COVID-19 era which has created room for innovation and employing more people.
One of the companies is Edgars Group, which has 68 outlets nationwide and now employs close to 500 workers, more than double the COVID-19 period levels.
“During the COVID-19 period, we were hit hard, but the past three years have been game changers as we have been able to employ close to 500 employees. The materials we have and the clothes we produce are meant to tell the Zimbabwean story, to show the world that we can make local products that our people are proud of and products that can stand at par on the world stage,” said Edgars group CEO, Mr Sevious Mushosho.
Speaking at a tour of the revamped Edgars manufacturing store in Bulawayo this Thursday, the Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Raj Modi commended the private sector for contributing to national development.
“What we are seeing is an example of what the President always speaks about that the country is built by its very own people. The last time I was here, there were only 34 workers and three years later I am back and there are 400 workers, which is good. We encourage private players to continue ploughing into the economy so that communities also benefit,” he said.
The clothing industry is key for the economy and has been boosted by government support towards cotton production.
