Zimpapers Logo

Chronicle Reporter
CHIEFS from Binga have ordered companies operating in the district to bring certificates of exemption from participating in the indigenisation programme accusing the firms of showing a negative attitude towards the empowerment programme. Three weeks ago the chiefs summoned the companies in the district  to a meeting where they requested them to submit their indigenisation plans.
In an interview recently, the chairman of Binga Community Trust, Chief Siansali, said during the meeting the company owners professed ignorance about the indigenisation programme.

“We held the meeting as planned but the companies professed ignorance on the empowerment programme. it seems they are trying to resist the programme,” said Chief Siansali.

He, however, said there was no way companies in this country could dodge the indigenisation drive, which is a Government programme supported by law.

Chief Siansali said the traditional leaders had since ordered the companies to produce exemption certificates to prove  they are exempt from participating in the programme.

“We explained many issues to them and told them that we are following a government programme that is supported by law. We then advised them to consult the National Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Board (NIEEB) and the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment and bring exemption certificates if they are not supposed to participate in the programme,” said Chief Siansali.

He said the companies were given up to 25 July  to bring exemption certificates or comply with the indigenisation programme.
“Binga did not benefit from the land reform programme and we do not want to lose another opportunity to empower the people,” said Chief Siansali
He could however not give the names of the companies that were resisting. Several companies are doing business along the Zambezi River between Kariba and Mlibizi, mainly in the fishing industry, crocodile farming and breeding and tourism.

Two other companies Apex Petroleum and Liberation Mine are also doing coal exploration in Lusulu.
When President Mugabe launched the Matabeleland North CSOS/T in October last year, Binga, Tsholotsho and Nkayi did not benefit as they do not have major economic businesses.

Binga is regarded as one of the districts that are lagging behind in terms of development and communities in the district are therefore pinning their hopes on the indigenisation programme.