Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has revived Technites, a digital platform that connects independent artisans with paid work.
The artisans will work for themselves, not for Econet, with Econet providing the platform to connect them with customers who can pay through EcoCash.
Former Econet senior executive Zac Wazara is tipped to lead Technites as a separate business in which he will be a shareholder.
According to the company, work is already underway to register and train technicians who will take on projects for Econet and its subsidiaries, and also offer their services to other businesses and individuals.
The platform’s first major assignment will be to install 20,000 cameras at EcoCash agent locations to meet Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe requirements. Many agents operate in rural areas, so the project is expected to create jobs across the country.
Technites will also take over work Econet has carried out directly for several years, including installing solar panels and WiFi at clinics and schools, and will be trained to repair boreholes.
Econet said the equipment has been imported and preparations for training have begun. The technicians will be equipped with motorcycles to reach customers in remote areas.
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Group CEO Douglas Mboweni said they will register skilled workers from a wider range of industries eventually.
“We are eyeing people who have returned from South Africa, as we know many of them are skilled. All they need is support to get back on their feet.”
Mboweni said Econet also plans to work with the government to use Technites to train young people.
“Econet is a partner in development, and we always try to support the government in addressing economic challenges and so we are responding to its call.”
The company said it will approach other large companies to identify work they can offer through the platform, creating further income opportunities for Technites.
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