Story by Tamuka Charakupa
GOVERNMENT’S industrialisation agenda is on course, with multi-million-dollar investments taking shape in Mashonaland West, creating jobs and driving economic growth, positioning the province as an industrial hub.
The proposed new city, Mt Hampden, in Mashonaland West, is emerging as the fast-growing industrial hub in the province.
Private sector-led investments are driving the progress, including two Chinese-led companies, Xinyuan Nyabira Bricks, which is into brick moulding and a cement-manufacturing firm, Zimbabwe Huaxin Industry.
Local youths are excited about the transformative investments.
“For a long time, we did not have many industries taking on young people, but now we are seeing companies coming in. This project alone has already absorbed several youths from the surrounding areas. It is a positive sign that the investment climate is opening doors for us,” Daniel Nyamukoho said.
“The environment is now more stable for business, and because of that, firms are willing to invest. That means employment for us. As youths, we now have somewhere to start our careers instead of leaving the province to look for jobs,” Tinashe Mukushwi added.
Once complete early next year, the Nyabira Bricks will produce at least one million bricks per day, while the Zimbabwe Huaxin Industry is producing 300 000 tonnes of cement per year.
“We are looking forward to producing at least one million bricks per day while employing at least 220 local youths. We want to contribute in the fight against drug and substance abuse. We have invested at least US$3 million and are hoping that once operational early next year, investments can increase to US$5 million,” Xinyuan/ Nyabira Bricks’ Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kevin Mutusva said.
“Our production has been increasing steadily due to improved infrastructure and consistent policy support. We are now able to meet a significant portion of national cement demand while contributing to exports. The stability and predictability of government policies have encouraged us to expand and invest more,” Zimbabwe Huaxin Industry, Producing and Logistics Manager, Mr Hu Wei noted.
Government said the progress reflects the impact of the Second Republic’s investor-friendly reforms.
“What we are witnessing here is the realisation of Vision 2030, industrial growth driven by private investment. These projects show that when the government creates a conducive policy environment, investors respond positively, and that results in job creation, value addition, and economic transformation at the provincial level,” Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere said.
“Mashonaland West is fast becoming an industrial powerhouse. As government, we are committed to ensuring that investors operating here have the necessary support, be it infrastructure, land, or procedural facilitation. This is the Second Republic’s commitment to making Zimbabwe an investment destination of choice,” Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo added.
With employment opportunities increasing and production capacities expanding, the province is emerging as a key beneficiary of the national industrialisation thrust.
