Gumboot factory for Bulawayo

A SOUTH Africa-based manufacturing company has put in place plans to set up a gumboot factory in Bulawayo with an initial investment of R150 million ($10,7 million), an official said.

Shosholoza Gumboots managing director Mr George Moyo revealed the company's plans to launch next year in February saying initial work was already in place with the support of the South African Embassy in Zimbabwe.

Shosholoza Gumboots were first introduced to South Africa's mining industry and are according to the company suitable for both mining and construction conditions as they have international specification steel toe caps which protect toes from injury when heavy objects pose a risk, an extra thick ankle padding, ankle cup and support with a luminous reflector for visual safety in low light environments.

Mr Moyo whose family is originally from Plumtree said he had great interest in the country and was encouraged by President Mugabe to form the SA-Zim Business Connection some years back when they met in SA. He is the outgoing president of the association that spearheads business engagements between the two countries.