admin
Mathew Masinge
SIX months ago, H-Metro revealed that The Centurion Pub & Grill, an iconic bar and restaurant in Harare which is known around the world and has been graced by some of the world’s greatest cricketers over the years, was on the verge of collapsing.
Disgruntled workers revealed that they had gone for close to four months without receiving their salaries.
The pub, which is housed at the Harare Sports Club is the go-to place for drinks when the country hosts international cricket matches and some of the world’s best cricketers.
The workers claimed the only money they had received in those four months were token payments ranging from US$40 to US$60.
There are 11 workers at the Pub & Grill,
The workers said their working conditions had been deteriorating with each passing day.
The then Centurion Pub n Grill manager, Jacqueline Nettleton, said her business had not been spared from some of the negative market forces but described them as temporary setbacks.
“As you know, the hospitality industry isn’t immune to recent economic challenges, including rising food costs, supply chain challenges and our biggest hurdle being unsettled bills that could easily bring us back in the black.
“These hurdles have caused a temporary cash-flow hurdle at Centurion Pub & Grill but as you have seen, the cricket is coming back soon and it hands us a great cash flow that brings us to normalcy and we can hedge off our non-paid bills.
“This influx will allow us to not only fulfil all outstanding employee compensation but also settle any creditor obligations.
“We value our dedicated staff more than words can express, before taking ownership of the business I was one of these staff members and we still share that bond.”
Today, The Centurion Pub & Grill is now under new management and has boosted the welfare of its employees and improved its services to meet international standards.
The pub now boasts of a new-look sports bar with latest technology, an improved sitting area, restaurant and braai area overlooking the cricket field.
The pub has also been transformed into an ideal meeting place for grand outdoors and a perfect weekend chilling spot.
Additionally, the pub has lined up activities on every day of the week.
Every Monday now has a Happy Hour, Tuesday will see patrons being treated to Quiz Night while Wednesdays are set for wines.
Thursdays are designed for the popular karaoke nights, Fridays for Bangers, Saturdays and Sundays are for Grill and Chills.
“We have refurbished The Centurion Pub & Grill into one of the must go-to joints for drinks, braai and restaurant.
“The interior now matches an upmarket spot, the food has changed with both exotic and indigenous dishes to suit the modern trends.
“We are inviting all old and new patrons to make a date with us for a renewed experience,” said the manager Brian Kasiyandima.
Kasiyandima said they will be hosting live bands at the venue and looking forward to hosting UK-based star Mic Inity tomorrow.
“We have also upgraded the bar with stock and quality staff for quick service to our patrons.
“Our entertainment side will also receive the much-needed boost this Wednesday as we host reggae/dancehall artist Mic Inity,” he said.
Mic Inity, who last performed in Harare five years ago, is expected to light up the stage as part of his homecoming gigs.
The musician made his name after pioneering in the “Kuma Rasta” shows at the now defunct Red Fox night club in Greendale.
In an interview Mic Inity said:
“This is the only show that I have agreed to have since my return from my new base in the UK.
“I have been all over the country promoting my new found passion to fight drugs among the youth. But before I wrap it up let’s meet at the Centurion Pub & Grill for a special moment,” said Mic Inity.
Online Reporter