Mujuru was an economic pillar

soldier and businessman, Solomon Tapfumanei Mujuru.

Retired General Mujuru was one of the major proponents of the economic empowerment of the majority.

This is one issue he did not only preach about but put into practice as he empowered directly or indirectly, using his own resources, quite a number of people and communities who have stood out in the last two days.
He was also widely invested in agriculture, mining and other sectors of the economy as he helped develop the economy.
He is one man who played a critical role in integrating the armed forces after independence, a factor that contributed immensely to stability, thus creating a conducive environment for economic growth.
The phenomenal economic progress achieved in the 1980s can attest to this.

I knew about him at a very young age soon after independence when we would sing “Mukoma Nhongo bereka sub tiende chauya chauya . . .” I did not appreciate the full meaning of the song then, but it was one that reminded me of the war of the liberation that was fought to bring about Zimbabwe.
Former Zimbabwe National Army Commander Retired General Mujuru was a man I did not know much about, in terms of a personal relationship except for a greeting or two at functions, but he is one man I respected at a distance.

He was someone whom one did not have to know personally to understand his impact and contributions to Zimbabwe’s complexion before and after Independence.
He had a certain aura about him that would make anyone aware of his presence and yet, as testified by many, remained as humble as they come.
This character could almost be described as uncharacteristic of a former soldier and yet here was a man who knew how to adapt to circumstances whether in the line of duty where he executed with exceptional wisdom or at a beer drink with ordinary farm workers where we hear he would relate to them as one of their peers.

He did not have to force anyone to recognise his importance, but it is something that was accorded to him almost naturally.
Zimbabwe is a a collective effort of individuals and corporates and Retired General Mujuru stands out as one who contributed significantly to its well-being.
As we celebrate his life, we need to remember that he was not just a political hero but an economic one as well.

A snapshot of those that have been streaming to the Mujuru residence to pay their last respects would show you a whole cross-section of individuals across the political and economic strata.
At many forums, Vice President Joice Mujuru, wife to the late retired general, has often spoken of how support from her husband has helped her achieve so much on the political, social, economic and academic fronts.

Thus, indirectly boosting women economic empowerment.
Mai Mujuru’s humility also speaks volumes of the man who has been besides her for a number of decades.
On Tuesday President Mugabe aptly described Retired General Mujuru:

“He is one of the greatest among our people and his name will remain ever indelible. We can never forget what he has done.
“We must gain strength from his departure,” he said.
Former SA ambassador Simon Khaya Moyo said: “His impeccable liberation war credentials speaks volumes of an aptitude revolutionary, and a courageous commander and a man of destiny.”

As we celebrate his life let’s continue to uphold his values and seek to take the economy forward, something that was close to his heart going by what many have been saying about him.
The best we can do in his honour is to ensure economic growth through broad-based empowerment programmes, the creation of conducive investment environment, policy consistency and other conditions that foster growth.
Ecclesiastes 7v1:

A good name is better than precious ointment, and the day of death than the day of one’s birth.”
Romans 14v8:
For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

Speculative behaviour harmful
The past fortnight or so has witnessed price hikes in response to the restoration of duty on some food items and finished products by Finance Minister Tendai Biti.
While so much debate has been going on regarding the efficacy of such a move, the speculative tendencies that have crippled into the economy are cause for concern.

We have seen retailers increase prices of such products as cooking oil by alarming margins. These goes for both imported and local brands.
Why should we begin to do things that will come back to haunt.
I always find it odd how people soon forget the ravaging effects of the pre-2009 hyperinflationary environment.

We need retailers, wholesalers and manufactures that are responsible citizens.
The profiteering mentality has never been sustainable.
Retail is a volumes business and the mentality of 100 percent mark-up or some such figure is not sustainable at all.

Let’s not do things that will attract the wrath of one Mr Godwills Masimirembwa.
We all know what he is capable of doing.

Whether what he does is good or bad for the economy is matter for another day but I believe economic growth can only be consolidated through responsible behaviour by all stakeholders.
The effects of the haphazard price adjustments are damaging.
We have already noticed a 0,4 percent increase in inflation over the past month.

Although some economists have said we need not worry at this stage, I think we need to be cautious.
Local producers also need to up their game and increase production to meet local demand. If not, Zimbabwe may have to continue importing such basics as sugar or laundry soap. This means we will continue to be exposed to imported inflation.

Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries president Mr Joseph Kanyekanye was spot on.
“We do not see any justification for local manufacturers to increase prices and as CZI we will make sure that prices of locally manufactured goods remain stable.
“In fact, we encourage local producers to take advantage of the limited competition at present price structures, the era of low productivity and high prices is over,” he said this week.

The duty was reinstated not as a strategy to justify price increases but as a measure to support local industry.
Let’s do the best we can to promote real economic growth and ensure we remain resolute in our quest to stave off challenges that have confronted the economy for a long time.
In God I Trust!