Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe [email protected]
THE Bulawayo business community is mourning veteran businessman, former councillor and renowned mentor Alderman Mohammed Hassen Esat, whose business wisdom and encouragement helped shape numerous entrepreneurs across the city.
He died on Sunday at the age of 80.
Ald Esat, one of the city’s most respected business figures, was widely recognised for his entrepreneurial success, civic leadership and commitment to mentoring young entrepreneurs.
He was at the helm of the family-owned HM Esat and Sons, popularly known as Esats Stores, a business that has maintained a retail presence in Bulawayo for more than a century and remains one of the city’s most recognisable enterprises.
Tenants operating from some of Ald Esat’s commercial properties also remembered him as a fair and understanding landlord who genuinely cared about the success of small businesses.
Paying tribute to the late businessman, proportional representation councillor and businesswoman Ms Perseverance Nyathi described him as a visionary whose impact extended beyond the corporate world.
“The late businessman and Alderman, Mr Mohammed Hassen Esat, was renowned for his outstanding business acumen and entrepreneurial vision,” said Ms Nyathi.
“He was a visionary in the business community, he was very knowledgeable in business matters and exceptionally skilled. I learnt the importance of ploughing back into the community. He practised Corporate social responsibility by providing food hampers every Friday to the elderly and disadvantaged people of Bulawayo. He always mocked me by saying Ms Percy how come you are not patient in business. Be patient like your name.
“The late businessman often advised aspiring entrepreneurs to be patient in business, emphasising that success comes through perseverance, sound judgment and long-term commitment,” she said.
Mr Sipho Ndlovu, who operates from one of Esat’s buildings, said the veteran businessman treated tenants with respect and encouraged them to grow their enterprises.
“He understood the challenges faced by small businesses and always gave practical advice. He wanted to see entrepreneurs succeed and create jobs,” said Mr Ndlovu.
Another tenant, Ms Nomsa Moyo, said Alderman Esat was approachable and deeply concerned about the welfare of those conducting business on his premises.
“He was more than a landlord. He would often check on our businesses and encourage us not to give up during difficult times. Bulawayo has lost a remarkable businessman and mentor,” she said.
His death marks the end of an era for one of Bulawayo’s most influential business leaders, whose legacy of entrepreneurship, philanthropy and mentorship is expected to continue inspiring future generations.
