By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru, Zimbabwe – In a heartfelt appeal, the country’s leading footwear manufacturer, Bata Shoe Company, has expressed its dissatisfaction with the level of support it receives from the government, particularly from various uniformed forces. This plea came to light during a recent meeting between the company’s Country Manager, Simon Mutisya, and the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Owen Ncube.
Mutisya highlighted the company’s commitment to producing high-quality shoes, which are widely used by members of the armed forces and law enforcement. However, he lamented the lack of recognition and support from these key sectors. “It’s disheartening to note that despite our efforts to provide high-quality shoes, we are not getting the necessary recognition and support,” he shared, emphasizing the disconnect between their efforts and the support expected from government departments.
Last year’s purchase of just 1,000 pairs by one of the uniformed forces departments stands in stark contrast to the company’s production capabilities. “We are currently exporting more shoes than we are selling locally, which is not ideal for us,” Mutisya explained, pointing out the challenging balance between local demand and international sales.
In a bid to ease accessibility for local customers, Bata has taken commendable steps, including accepting local currency as payment. “We want our products to be more affordable and accessible for everyone. We strongly appeal to government departments to assist us in this effort,” he stated, showcasing the company’s commitment to its local community.
Minister Ncube, who was present at the meeting, assured Mutisya that he would advocate for enhanced support for Bata Shoe Company. “As the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, I will make sure that we support local businesses, especially those that have a proven track record of providing quality products,” Ncube promised, signaling hope for a more robust partnership between the government and local enterprises.
Bata Shoe Company has built a solid reputation in Zimbabwe for producing durable and dependable footwear. For years, it has been a trusted supplier to various uniformed forces, including the Zimbabwe National Army, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services. With a commitment to quality and a deep-rooted connection to the community, many hope that this recent dialogue will lead to a strengthened relationship between the company and the government, ensuring that local businesses like Bata can thrive and continue to support their communities.
As Gweru continues to be a hub for industry and innovation, it’s crucial that local companies receive the support they need to flourish, creating jobs and quality products for Zimbabweans. The future looks promising, but only if the collaboration between businesses and government strengthens in the coming days.
Bata Shoe Company Seeks Greater Support from Government in Gweru
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru, Zimbabwe – In a heartfelt appeal, the country’s leading footwear manufacturer, Bata Shoe Company, has expressed its dissatisfaction with the level of support it receives from the government, particularly from various uniformed forces. This plea came to light during a recent meeting between the company’s Country Manager, Simon Mutisya, and the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Owen Ncube.
Mutisya highlighted the company’s commitment to producing high-quality shoes, which are widely used by members of the armed forces and law enforcement. However, he lamented the lack of recognition and support from these key sectors. “It’s disheartening to note that despite our efforts to provide high-quality shoes, we are not getting the necessary recognition and support,” he shared, emphasizing the disconnect between their efforts and the support expected from government departments.
Last year’s purchase of just 1,000 pairs by one of the uniformed forces departments stands in stark contrast to the company’s production capabilities. “We are currently exporting more shoes than we are selling locally, which is not ideal for us,” Mutisya explained, pointing out the challenging balance between local demand and international sales.
In a bid to ease accessibility for local customers, Bata has taken commendable steps, including accepting local currency as payment. “We want our products to be more affordable and accessible for everyone. We strongly appeal to government departments to assist us in this effort,” he stated, showcasing the company’s commitment to its local community.
Minister Ncube, who was present at the meeting, assured Mutisya that he would advocate for enhanced support for Bata Shoe Company. “As the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, I will make sure that we support local businesses, especially those that have a proven track record of providing quality products,” Ncube promised, signaling hope for a more robust partnership between the government and local enterprises.
Bata Shoe Company has built a solid reputation in Zimbabwe for producing durable and dependable footwear. For years, it has been a trusted supplier to various uniformed forces, including the Zimbabwe National Army, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services. With a commitment to quality and a deep-rooted connection to the community, many hope that this recent dialogue will lead to a strengthened relationship between the company and the government, ensuring that local businesses like Bata can thrive and continue to support their communities.
As Gweru continues to be a hub for industry and innovation, it’s crucial that local companies receive the support they need to flourish, creating jobs and quality products for Zimbabweans. The future looks promising, but only if the collaboration between businesses and government strengthens in the coming days.
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru, Zimbabwe – In a heartfelt appeal, the country’s leading footwear manufacturer, Bata Shoe Company, has expressed its dissatisfaction with the level of support it receives from the government, particularly from various uniformed forces. This plea came to light during a recent meeting between the company’s Country Manager, Simon Mutisya, and the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Owen Ncube.
Mutisya highlighted the company’s commitment to producing high-quality shoes, which are widely used by members of the armed forces and law enforcement. However, he lamented the lack of recognition and support from these key sectors. “It’s disheartening to note that despite our efforts to provide high-quality shoes, we are not getting the necessary recognition and support,” he shared, emphasizing the disconnect between their efforts and the support expected from government departments.
Last year’s purchase of just 1,000 pairs by one of the uniformed forces departments stands in stark contrast to the company’s production capabilities. “We are currently exporting more shoes than we are selling locally, which is not ideal for us,” Mutisya explained, pointing out the challenging balance between local demand and international sales.
In a bid to ease accessibility for local customers, Bata has taken commendable steps, including accepting local currency as payment. “We want our products to be more affordable and accessible for everyone. We strongly appeal to government departments to assist us in this effort,” he stated, showcasing the company’s commitment to its local community.
Minister Ncube, who was present at the meeting, assured Mutisya that he would advocate for enhanced support for Bata Shoe Company. “As the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, I will make sure that we support local businesses, especially those that have a proven track record of providing quality products,” Ncube promised, signaling hope for a more robust partnership between the government and local enterprises.
Bata Shoe Company has built a solid reputation in Zimbabwe for producing durable and dependable footwear. For years, it has been a trusted supplier to various uniformed forces, including the Zimbabwe National Army, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services. With a commitment to quality and a deep-rooted connection to the community, many hope that this recent dialogue will lead to a strengthened relationship between the company and the government, ensuring that local businesses like Bata can thrive and continue to support their communities.
As Gweru continues to be a hub for industry and innovation, it’s crucial that local companies receive the support they need to flourish, creating jobs and quality products for Zimbabweans. The future looks promising, but only if the collaboration between businesses and government strengthens in the coming days.
