Econet plans jobs for Zimbabweans returning from South Africa

Econet Zimbabwe has stepped up efforts to create employment opportunities and support Zimbabweans returning from South Africa following a directive from its founder and Group Chairman, Strive Masiyiwa.

Chief Executive Officer Douglas Mboweni said the company has held several meetings with Masiyiwa to explore how the business can complement Government efforts to assist returnees and ease the pressure on the labour market.

Mboweni said Econet is considering fast-tracking projects capable of creating jobs in the short term, including temporary employment opportunities.

"We are looking at various projects aimed primarily at creating even temporary jobs," said Mboweni.

"For instance, we are looking at how we can fast-track some of our work at Econet Tech City, particularly construction. We could provide about 2,000 jobs in the short term as we ramp up construction."

The telecommunications giant also plans to expand its AgriTech operations, which include agricultural initiatives producing fruit for export to China.

Mboweni said the expansion could generate hundreds of additional jobs, highlighting agriculture as one of the sectors capable of absorbing workers quickly.

"We are not farmers, but we are putting money into agricultural initiatives because they are a quick way to create jobs," he said.

Meanwhile, EcoCash, Econet's mobile money business, is planning to recruit 15,000 new agents by Christmas as part of the employment drive.

"Each time we appoint a new agent, that results in at least two jobs. So this is one way we think we can help," Mboweni said.

He said Econet was engaging the Government on some of its initiatives as the company responds to calls for businesses to play a greater role in addressing the challenges confronting Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.

"As industry and business, we have to use all the tools at our disposal to help our fellow citizens," he said.

Mboweni also urged other companies to follow Econet's example by identifying opportunities to create employment, including temporary jobs, to help ease the economic difficulties faced by returning citizens.

The initiative comes as businesses and Government face growing pressure to find practical ways of supporting returnees and expanding employment opportunities in Zimbabwe.