The Ministry of Industry and Commerce continues to drive economic growth through the revival of companies previously affected by illegal sanctions and other challenges. As part of this initiative, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. T. U. Wushe, visited Bata Shoe Company in Gweru on the sidelines of the Ministry’s Strategic Planning Workshop.
During the visit, Dr. Wushe held discussions with Mr. S. Mutisiya, the Country Manager for Bata. He expressed satisfaction that the anti-smuggling campaign has positively impacted the company, leading to increased profitability, higher production levels, and growth in employment to 1,326 workers.
Mr. Mutisiya commended Government for its continued support, highlighting the Local Content Strategy as a key enabler in promoting local procurement and revitalising the manufacturing sector. He noted that several institutions, including those in the security sector, are now purchasing footwear in bulk from Bata.
Bata is producing high-quality footwear that competes favourably with regional brands. However, Mr. Mutisiya appealed for enhanced efforts under the Ease and Cost of Doing Business programme to help mitigate rising operational costs, particularly from council rates, levies, and utility bills.
He also pointed out that while Bata retails products in ZiG, most suppliers of raw materials demand USD payments, posing an additional challenge. The company imports some of its chemicals and rubber, while hides, canvas, and other materials are sourced locally from merchants and David Whitehead Textiles.
Mr. Mutisiya emphasised that Bata’s revival has strengthened value chains within the shoe manufacturing industry, although competition from unregulated street vending remains a concern. He reaffirmed that as a trusted and iconic brand, Bata’s resurgence will make a meaningful contribution to economic growth and industrialisation.
