Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
Zimpapers Business Hub
IN a major policy breakthrough expected to accelerate the revival of Ingwebu Breweries in Bulawayo, the Government granted the municipal-owned brewer a special procurement dispensation, exempting it from the strict public procurement regulations that govern local authorities and State agencies.
The strategic waiver is expected to fast-track the procurement of essential goods and services, enabling Ingwebu to modernise its operations, enhance competitiveness, and reclaim market share in the traditional beer sector.
City of Bulawayo Chamber Secretary, Mrs Sikhangele Zhou, confirmed the development last week, describing it as a “game-changer” for the iconic brewery.
“We are grateful to the Central Government for granting a special dispensation to Ingwebu Breweries, allowing it to procure goods and services without being subjected to procurement regulations that apply to Local Authorities and other Government agencies,” said Mrs Zhou.
She made this statement after touring Ingwebu Breweries’ newly-automated plant, which included the Special Advisor to the President, Responsible for Monitoring the Implementation of Government Programmes, Dr Joram Gumbo, the Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, as well as senior officials from the Government and councils, last week.
She said the exemption would allow Ingwebu to operate with the agility and speed required in a highly competitive market dominated by private-sector players with flexible procurement systems.
“Ingwebu has tried under these trying terms to retool and compete with competition that has private capital. This special arrangement puts us in a better position to respond to market demands quickly and efficiently,” said Mrs Zhou.
The dispensation comes at a critical time for Ingwebu, which is in urgent need of capital investment to replace obsolete equipment.
“This is why the dividend has not been as expected by the residents. The company needs to reinvest and purchase state-of-the-art machinery. This waiver helps Ingwebu move closer to that goal by cutting through bureaucratic delays,” she said.
Online Reporter