Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Writer
INSPIRED by President Mnangagwa’s philosophy; “Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo” a local investor based in Plumtree Town has built a US$90 000 shopping centre.
This comes as many Zimbabweans have embraced the hard work philosophy, which has seen infrastructure development taking shape across the country as ordinary people seek to contribute national economic growth.
In Plumtree Town, a new shopping complex named I&R Tjalebwa Mall has been constructed at the heart of the border town along Thekwane Road.
The facility was recently officially commissioned by Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Deputy Minister, Dingumuzi Phuti, marking a milestone for town.
Addressing businesspeople, residents and Government officials, Deputy Minister Phuti said the development is expected to boost the local economy and provide a convenient shopping hub for residents.
“Government will continue to fully support infrastructure development initiatives countrywide, and l am happy for Plumtree town today for such a project,” he said.
“The development also demonstrates the town’s compliance with corporate governance and ease of doing business,” said Deputy Minister Phuti.
I&R proprietor Mr Isaac Moyo said the development was part of fruits of attaining independence as black people began to have control of their means of production.
“We bought the stand in 1980. Construction of I&R Tjalebwa Mall began in January 2024. The stand is 9 000 square metres and we have only used 450 square metres,” he said.
“The plan is to expand, funds permitting and God willing. The mall cost was US$90 000 for it to be complete. The businesses are hardware, furniture and general supplies.”
Mr Moyo said the facility was a way of empowering small medium enterprises.
As part of efforts to ensure proper hygiene, the project involved construction of ablution facilities for the public as the mall is situated adjacent to Plumtree Renkini, which has been functioning without proper toilets and posed health hazards.
“Plumtree is a growing town, and we believe in supporting the small to medium businesses and that is why we have provided I&R Tjalebgwa Mall.
“We have also constructed public toilets to help the customers and the general public within the area.
“We thank the Plumtree community for supporting the opening of the I&R Tjalebgwa Mall and we look forward to more opportunities to help Plumtree. As Philippians 4 vs 13, we say ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’,” he said.
