Chronicle Editor
Nqobile Bhebhe, Online Reporter
Barmlo Group of Companies chief executive officer, Mr Banabasi Marambire says the private sector is immensely contributing to the construction sector boom in rural areas by embarking on various key infrastructure projects.
Mr Marambire said the private sector is critical in infrastructure development as most players are time conscious in finishing projects within set timelines.
He said there is rapid growth visibility in the rural areas, driving demand for materials such as cement.
Demand for cement has benefited from individual home development projects characterizing every part of the country.
“Construction in Zimbabwe is at its peak, in the past years private players have been developing land in urban areas and made it possible for the majority of people to buy stands, so now a lot of people are building houses.
“We also witness more people building modern houses in the rural areas which has contributed to the growth and demand of construction services in the entire country,” he told the Business Chronicle.
“The private sector can be more efficient due to fast decision-making and implementation of policies. Private companies are effective as they chase after time to complete projects in order to make a profit,” said a former herd boy.
According to the country’s five-year development plan, National Development Strategy 1 (NDS-1,) the government committed to infrastructure development, supported by the private sector.
To date, several projects spanning various sectors such as roads, energy, mining and tourism are at different stages of implementation with the Government optimistic of achieving set targets.
Investments in housing dovetails with the Second Republic’s ambition to rebuild the economy and improve the living standards of citizens through delivery of 250 000 housing units under NSD-1.
To move with speed in championing the national development agenda, the Government has also engaged the private sector on some of the projects under the Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) initiative.
Mr Marambire said his firm is contributing to employment creation.
“There is Barmlo Investments for brick moulding and building materials supply and Barmlo Construction which also offers commercial transport while Maineck Holdings (PVT) Ltd is grounded in maize milling, food processing and solar energy supply.
“At present, there are 188 permanent employees and 24 part time employees. I am very passionate about business and I am happy to be making strides with the Barmlo Group of Companies. We have built houses for individuals in rural areas like Ngundu in Chivi, Chigodora in Mutare, Bingaguru in Rusape, Shurugwi in Midlands, Filabusi in Matabeleland South, Drifonten in Masvingo, Kobet in Mberengwa,” Mr Marambire said.
Barmlo Group of Companies is headquartered in Mberengwa and has a presence in six provinces. — @nqobilebhebhe
Online Reporter