Chegutu has secured a US$3 million brick-moulding plant investment from a Chinese investor, in a development expected to create 200 jobs and boost Zimbabwe’s rural industrialisation agenda.
The project, being spearheaded by Heng Chang Investments, will produce up to 200,000 bricks per day, strengthening the construction sector while stimulating economic activity in Mashonaland West Province.
Government officials and community leaders described the investment as a strong endorsement of Zimbabwe’s improving investment climate and growing industrial base.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday, Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Marian Chombo described the investment as tangible proof that the Government’s rural industrialisation strategy is delivering results.
“The coming in of investments such as this one is clear testimony that the Second Republic’s rural industrialisation agenda is firmly on course.
“By establishing industries closer to our communities, we are creating jobs, stimulating economic activity and accelerating the attainment of Vision 2030,” she said.
She called on local authorities across the country to adopt investor-friendly policies and create conditions that encourage business growth and economic expansion.
“I urge other local authorities to emulate the proactive and investor-friendly approach being demonstrated by Chegutu. As Government, we remain committed to supporting investors through the provision of an enabling environment that allows businesses to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.
Managing Director of Heng Chang Investments, Gina Yu, said the company was attracted by Zimbabwe’s conducive business environment and the hospitality of local communities.
“Zimbabwe is a good country. The local people are very kind, and the weather is very good. I am very happy to stay here and interact with the people,” she said.
The project is expected to have a significant impact beyond brick production, creating employment opportunities and stimulating broader economic growth within the district.
Chegutu councillor, Tatenda Gwinji said the investment would provide much-needed jobs, particularly for young people, while contributing to social and economic stability in the area.
“This investment is a welcome development for our community as it will create employment opportunities for our young people, thereby helping to reduce social challenges such as drug and substance abuse,” he said.
He added that the local authority would also benefit from levies and other revenue streams generated by the project, strengthening its capacity to improve service delivery.
Councillor Gwinji further applauded the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, noting that plans are already in place to construct a clinic and rehabilitate local roads.
“We are equally encouraged by the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, which includes plans to construct a clinic and rehabilitate local roads, bringing lasting benefits to our residents,” he said.
The Chegutu brick-moulding plant joins a growing number of investments being channelled into Zimbabwe’s productive sectors as the country intensifies efforts to promote value addition, industrialisation and employment creation under Vision 2030.
Once operational, the facility is expected to become one of the key industrial projects in Mashonaland West, supporting Zimbabwe’s expanding construction industry while generating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
