adminrich consistent with Government policy for decent shelter for everyone.
The Vice President noted that Zimbabwe’s industry seemed to focus more on producing for the elite forgetting the poor. She said this while commissioning a concrete roof tile plant by Beta Holdings, a consortium of indigenous persons, in Mount Hampden.
“I call upon our manufacturing sector to be reminded that there are many less resourced citizens who are also entitled to decent shelter. I therefore challenge the construction industry to produce quality housing materials for both the well resourced and the less privileged. This in my view would be both timely and appropriate,” said VP Mujuru.
“Government is committed to the provision of decent accommodation for the majority of our people and this is in line with our recently launched Medium Term Plan.”
On energy, the VP said Government viewed power development as a priority as evidenced by a decision made to deregulate the industry to allow private sector participation in electricity generation.
“While some independent power companies have been licensed, regrettably none of them has set up or plans to set up sizeable power production plants, which is what Zimbabwe needs at the moment,” she said.
The VP commended Beta Holdings for its contribution in the construction industry.
“The construction industry worldwide is seen as a key barometer for economic growth. As such, it is commendable to see a key player, like Beta Holdings, deciding to expand plant and equipment by investing close to US$3 million,” she said.
“An investment of this magnitude is no mean feat and was arrived at after careful evaluation of all the challenges and opportunities prevailing in the economy.”
Beta Holdings chairperson, Mr Albert Nhau said Beta Bricks, a subsidiary that moulds bricks, now commands about 60 percent of the market.
“The support we seek from Government is not necessarily in the form of finance but in creating an enabling environment which allows private enterprises to flourish. The challenges facing industry are well known and I will not repeat them, suffice to say to you as Government, let’s do more action and less talking and I believe we will achieve more for our country,” he said.
Beta chief executive Mr Godfrey Manhambara said their mission was to make concrete tiles the standard for roofing over every building in Zimbabwe, just as clay brick is now standard in structures, thus replacing some inferior and outdated materials still being used.
The event was also attended by Public Works Minister Gabuza Joel Gabbuza and senior Government officials.
Online Reporter