Econet Plans To Create Thousands Of Jobs For Zimbabweans Returning From South Africa

Econet Zimbabwe says it has stepped up efforts to create jobs and support Zimbabweans returning from South Africa following a directive from its founder and Group Chairman, Strive Masiyiwa.

Chief Executive Officer Douglas Mboweni said management has held several meetings with Masiyiwa to explore how the business can complement Government efforts to assist returnees.

The company is now looking at fast-tracking projects that can quickly create employment, even temporarily.

“We are looking at various projects aimed primarily at creating even temporary jobs,” said Mboweni.

“For instance, we are looking at how we can fast-track some of our work at Econet Tech City, particularly construction. We could provide about 2,000 jobs in the short term as we ramp up construction.”

Mboweni said Econet also plans to expand its AgriTech operations, which produce fruit for export to China, a move that could create hundreds of additional jobs.

“We are not farmers, but we are putting money into agricultural initiatives because they are a quick way to create jobs,” he said.

As part of the initiative, EcoCash, Econet’s mobile money business, is planning to recruit 15,000 new agents by Christmas.

“Each time we appoint a new agent, that results in at least two jobs. So this is one way we think we can help,” Mboweni said.

He said the company is engaging Government on some of its initiatives as it responds to calls for business to play a more active role in addressing the challenges facing returning citizens.

“As industry and business, we have to use all the tools at our disposal to help our fellow citizens,” he said.

Mboweni urged other companies to follow Econet’s lead by identifying opportunities to create employment, even if only temporary, to help ease the difficulties faced by people returning from South Africa.

More: Chronicle