Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
A HARARE-based construction company has moved to tap into the growing pool of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa by advertising employment opportunities specifically targeting returning Zimbabweans.
Prevail Group of Companies, owned by Presidential adviser Dr Paul Tungwarara, has invited Zimbabweans who have recently returned from South Africa to apply for various positions on an upcoming construction project, in what is one of the first known private sector initiatives targeting the returnees.
The company says it is looking for plumbers, builders, electricians, concrete batchers, drivers, carpenters, painters and general hands.
The company said the initiative is aimed at giving returnees an opportunity to start afresh and rebuild their lives in Zimbabwe.
“Looking for an opportunity to start afresh and rebuild your life? Prevail Group invites you to apply for opportunities on an upcoming construction project,” reads part of the advert.
The development comes as thousands of Zimbabweans are returning home following the end of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) programme in South Africa.
Government has already put in place measures to facilitate the smooth and dignified return of affected citizens, with reception centres established and various stakeholders, including churches and humanitarian organisations, assisting returnees before they proceed to their respective destinations across the country.
The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations in Bulawayo said it had received hundreds of returnees at the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa in Njube, where they are being provided with temporary accommodation, food and transport assistance.
Labour and economic analysts say the private sector has a crucial role to play in complementing Government efforts by creating employment opportunities for skilled returnees, many of whom acquired valuable experience while working in South Africa.
They say initiatives such as the one by Prevail Group could help ease the reintegration of returnees into the local economy while addressing skills shortages in key sectors such as construction.
“I am pleased to announce that the Prevail Group of Companies will be hiring skilled individuals returning home from South Africa to join our team. If you possess the relevant skills and are interested, we kindly invite you to apply,” said Dr Tungwarara, writing on his social media accounts.
Colletta Dube