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Mukudzei Chingwere
Herald Reporter
Zimbabwe’s economy is experiencing a significant construction boom, driven by increased business activity and strategic initiatives from the Second Republic aimed at fostering economic growth, industry experts have observed.
Despite this growth, many industry players feel that the positive developments are not receiving the attention they deserve.
The focus often remains on project completion, overshadowing the broader economic benefits that arise from these activities.
Since his inauguration in 2017, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has championed economic growth, implementing actionable strategies under the banner of “Zimbabwe is Open for Business.”
This initiative aims to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and propel the country toward achieving upper middle-income status by 2030.
As a result, numerous capital-intensive projects are taking shape, with local construction companies actively participating in the infrastructure development sector.
Zimbabwe Building and Contractors Association (ZBCA) president Dr Tinashe Manzungu praised President Mnangagwa’s commitment to contracting local firms for the rehabilitation of key infrastructure, such as roads.
“Employing local companies significantly benefits the economy by enhancing infrastructure while promoting local participation in economic activities,” said Dr Manzungu.
“Local hiring creates jobs and provides training opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable.”
As the CEO and director of Zimbuild Property Investments Dr Manzungu said they have a responsibility to match the quality of their multinational counterparts.
“We are committed to delivering high-quality work and these opportunities have elevated our status in the industry.”
Manah Buildings Construction director Mr Arthar Mafuya and the ZBCA 2024 contractor of the year expressed gratitude to the Government for awarding larger contracts to local firms.
“We are thankful for the trust placed in us by the Government. We promise not to betray this trust and will deliver our projects with the utmost quality and integrity,” said Mr Mafuya.
“The Nyika inovakwa Nevene Vayo policy is in full effect and local construction companies are actively participating in building our nation.
“Our company has seen rapid growth due to the contracts awarded to us and I am pleased to report that many of our colleagues in the construction sector are delivering excellent work,” said Mr Mafuya.
As Zimbabwe continues to build its infrastructure, the collaboration between the Government and local companies stands to benefit the economy and pave the way for sustainable development.
In separate interviews, industry stakeholders echoed sentiments of increased business activity and a favorable business climate which are crucial in reducing unemployment rates.
Frogmerge Construction Company managing director Engineer Shingi Vhiriri commended the Government for its focus on empowering local entities.
“By employing local companies, the Government is not only providing livelihoods but also fostering economic growth,” said Engineer Vhiriri.
“When we secure contracts, the proceeds are reinvested locally rather than repatriated abroad.”
Engineer Vhiriri implored fellow construction professionals to uphold quality standards, emphasising that local companies should only accept projects they can competently execute.
Nonaly Trading director Mr Nobioth Magwizi noted that contracting local firms has significantly promoted the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the construction sector.
“The trust and confidence placed in local companies by the Government is invaluable. We consistently complete projects ahead of schedule,” said Mr Magwizi.
“The New Dispensation has markedly increased the awarding of contracts to local firms, enhancing the standing of SMEs in the construction industry.
“This affirmative action has created equal employment opportunities that were previously dominated by larger firms,” said Mr Magwizi.
Online Reporter