Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
THE rural industrialisation drive is gathering momentum in Mashonaland East Province, where a young entrepreneur from Goromonzi has established a thriving manufacturing and farming enterprise that is creating employment opportunities for local communities.
As Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to boost local production and reduce imports, 37-year-old Grace Musa is demonstrating how innovation, determination and diversification can transform livelihoods.
Through her company, Discovery Coin Company, Musa has established a serviette manufacturing plant and a horticulture business, contributing to the country’s industrialisation agenda while creating jobs for local people.
“The establishment of Discovery Coin Company has transformed my life. I was unemployed before joining the company, but I have gained valuable experience in horticulture and serviette production. I can now provide for my family,” said one employee.
Another employee said the business has improved livelihoods while equipping workers with new skills.
“I joined the company in September last year knowing very little about horticulture. I have since gained experience in greenhouse farming and mushroom production. The jobs created here are also helping to curb drug and substance abuse in the community,” the employee said.
From humble beginnings, the company now produces more than 10,000 cases of serviettes every month for local and regional markets. It has also embraced greenhouse technology to boost horticultural production in response to changing climatic conditions.
Musa said her vision was to support the government’s industrialisation agenda by producing goods locally and creating sustainable employment.
“We established this company to promote local production and reduce imports. We supply major companies, including Simbisa Brands, Chicken Inn, Bakers Inn and Chicken Slice. We are also investing in greenhouse farming to improve productivity despite climate change. Our focus is on crops such as tomatoes, peppers and English cucumbers, while greenhouse technology allows us to maximise yields and profitability,” she said.
Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, recently toured the enterprise and commended Musa for her contribution to economic development.
“Grace Musa’s achievements demonstrate what is possible through innovation, hard work and effective land utilisation. Her business has created more than 165 direct jobs, with many more benefiting indirectly. Beyond manufacturing, she has diversified into greenhouse farming, mushroom production and open-field horticulture, making a significant contribution to employment, food production and economic growth,” he said.
As the business continues to expand, Grace Musa’s success story illustrates how entrepreneurship, innovation and value addition can drive rural industrialisation, create employment and contribute to national development.
