Businesses optimistic
THE business community in Mutare has expressed optimism of economic turnaround this year saying the challenges being faced were temporary and would soon pass.
They also expressed confidence in the Government’s fiscal and monetary policies saying that if the guiding principles were followed to the letter, the strategies would come to fruition.
Shugdaile Enterprises director Mr Tendai Chitowa said the 2019 Budget presented by Minister of Finance Professor Mthuli Ncube had key components and enough ingredients for economic recovery.
“I am very confident that 2019 is going to be our year as Zimbabweans as far as economic recovery and industry revitalisation are concerned,” he said.
“President Mnangagwa has created a platform through his mantra ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’ that has helped us to regain investors’ confidence. MoUs signed between our Government and other nations in 2018 are a clear sign that other countries are willing to be part of our recovery journey,” he said.
Mr Chitowa said President Mnangagwa’s drive towards combating corruption and other shady deals would also greatly contribute to the economic turnaround.
He said Government’s initiative to drive development through devolution also gives great potential for business opportunities in all communities.
Real estate mogul and transporter Mr Lloyd Mapunga described 2018 as a year that created hope in the business sector and infrastructural development projects that are currently being implemented by both public and private sectors were a clear sign of a bright year.
“The year 2018 has been an eventful year especially in business. We are optimistic that 2019 will also come with business opportunities that will also turn around the fortunes of this country. We have confidence in our Government and the vision that our President Cde Mnangagwa has concerning this country,” he said.
“There are a number of infrastructural development projects that are being implemented by the public and private sectors which are a good sign of a brighter 2019. We believe the monetary and fiscal policies that are being implemented by the financial authorities will work as expected. It is our hope that the current economic environment that is prevailing will soon come to an end,” he said.
Decent Foods director Mr Tinashe Zimunhu said people should work hard for a brighter 2019.
“As the business community we hope for best this year. It is not easy to run a business even in some of the best economies. Running a business is like swimming in a lake with sharks and for you to survive there is need to continue employing your wits. 2019 is the year that will see a number of small businesses becoming large corporates because of investment opportunities that were created in the country,” he said.