Chronicle EditorAmos Mpofu, [email protected]
SCORES of job seekers formed long queues at Chicken Slice yesterday in response to a social media advertisement posted last week announcing vacancies for cashiers, cooks, and cleaners at the fast-food chain’s new branch.
The branch, a drive-through, that is set to open in a month, will be located at the corner of 10th Avenue and Robert Mugabe Way in Bulawayo.
The announcement attracted a significant number of applicants, reflecting the high demand for employment opportunities in the city.
By mid-morning, what began as a modest queue of job seekers had swelled into a seemingly endless one, snaking its way around blocks of buildings along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Street and 9th Avenue in the city centre, casting long shadows across the pavements.
The line, anchored at the Chicken Slice outlet, extended down 9th Avenue, turned sharply at the main post office, and continued along Eighth Avenue. It wrapped around Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Street, where it doubled back towards 9th Avenue, forming a complete loop around the bustling city block.
Young men and women stood shoulder to shoulder, their faces a mixture of hope, determination, and anxiety.
Some clutched brown envelopes filled with meticulously prepared CVs, while others held onto small bags containing their lunch, anticipating a long wait.
At the front of the line, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Those who had arrived before dawn were hopeful, their spirits lifted by the prospect of being the first to hand in their applications. Some smiled nervously, glancing frequently at the doors of Chicken Slice, willing them to open.
Further back, the mood was more subdued.
The line seemed endless, stretching far beyond what the eye could see, and for many, the chances of even reaching the entrance felt slim. Yet, the hope that drove them to stand in the growing heat was undeterred.
One of the job seekers, Mr Blessed Zimuto from Barbourfields suburb expressed optimism that he would secure the job.
“I am one of the hundreds waiting to be interviewed for the job advertised on social media last week. Like everyone else, I am praying to be one of the few lucky ones,” he said.
Ms Tilda Ngoma from Emganwini, who was waiting to be interviewed for a cashier position, shared her confidence: “I am waiting for an interview for a cashier position. I am confident that I will be successful given my capabilities despite the numbers.”
Mrs Schingeni Dube from Nkulumane, who was seeking a cleaner position, also expressed optimism
“I woke as early as 5am to beat the queue and I am quite confident that I will get the job,” she said
Ms Nomusa Dube, who holds a diploma in education, said she decided to look for a job while waiting for an opportunity for a teaching placement opportunity.
Mr Tendai Utete who was waiting to be interviewed for a chef position, said he was looking forward to securing the job for him to raise enough money and continue with his law studies.
Chicken Slice’s marketing manager, Ms Brenda Barare, acknowledged the overwhelming turnout.
“We are thrilled with the support from Bulawayo. The turnout in response to the job advert we posted last week was quite overwhelming and amazing, and it shows that people are eager to work for our brand,” she said.
She said this soon-to-open branch would be the third in Bulawayo and the 21st in the country.
“We employ locally where our branches are established. We look forward to opening more branches in the Matabeleland region,” said Ms Barare.
While Chicken Slice aims to recruit about 30 people for the new branch, Ms Barare assured that unsuccessful candidates would be considered for future opportunities.
According to the job advertisement, minimum requirements included O-level passes, with applicants expected to be at least 25 years old. Candidates were required to submit their CVs and copies of certificates at Chicken Slice’s 9th Avenue branch.
Online Reporter