The ethanol plant near Checheche growth point has created employment and business opportunities resulting in a boom for business in the area, it has been learnt.
Green Fuel Investments, constructors of the multi-million dollar ethanol plant in Chisumbanje, has so far recruited scores of youths in the once sleepy area and beyond, giving them an opportunity to fend for their families and transform their lives.
Shop operators at the growth point noted they now realised high returns from their business operations since Green Fuel commissioned the fuel plant.
Simon Dhliwayo, who runs a grocery outlet, hardware and furniture shop, said business had greatly improved in their area.
“We have noted a great boom in business and we are grateful to government for bringing such a big investor into our area,” said Dhliwayo.
The boom has also seen two major banks, ZB Bank and ZABG, opening branches at the growth point.
Another businessman, Andrew Gwenzi, said he decided to venture into the furniture business after discovering the potential for high returns at the growth point.
“My business is doing quite well because people no longer have to wait for farming seasons to get cash,” Gwenzi said.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Guunyi Maphosa, who runs a general dealer shop at the growth point, said he had to restock constantly to cope with the increased demand. “This company has brought a lot of people into our area and this is a positive development to our business operations,” he said.
Landlords have also not missed out, as they were now leasing out their houses resulting in rentals shooting up, due to demand in accommodation. “I used to occupy my whole six-roomed house, but due to the high demand for accommodation, I had to lease out three,” said Dorothy Mabharera.
However, Charles Chikukwa said the boom was temporary as other people employed at Green Fuel were from areas outside the district.
Chipinge Rural District Council is on record as saying demand for both residential and business stands at Checheche growth point had increased because of business operations and opportunities brought by the ethanol project.
