UPDATED: Zimpapers commissions $1m  exercise book making machine Minister Mutsvangwa being taken through the book printing process by Zimpapers general manager in the commercial printing division, Mr Njabulo Nkomo while Information Ministry permanent secretary, Cde Nick Mangwana (in grey suit) and Bulawayo Metropolitan provincial Minister Cde Judith Ncube also listening in

Pamela Shumba , Senior Reporter
THE country’s leading integrated media group, Zimpapers, yesterday re-opened Typocrafters and commissioned a $1 million exercise book making machine as part of efforts to contribute to the revival of industries and create employment.

This brings a new lease of life to Typocrafters, which has been lying desolate for over seven years.

Speaking at the launch yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, said she was excited about the development which will see Typocrafters having a big impact on the education sector as exercise books will be available for distribution throughout the country.

She commended the Zimpapers board and management for responding positively to President Mnangagwa’s call to expand production, revive the economy and create jobs despite the prevailing economic challenges.

“The re-opening of Typocrafters today and the commissioning of the exercise book printing machine speaks to the opportunities that exist in the economy of our country and resonates well with the mantra that Zimbabwe is open for business.

“When we call for investment, it’s not just foreign investment that we’re after. We need more domestic investment and Zimpapers has shown that it understands the message that we’re communicating,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

She added that when businesses innovate and constantly think outside the box, the economy grows and employment is generated.

“The stationery printing unit will have a big impact on the education sector. By printing four million books every month, Typocrafters is set to take a big chunk of the market and this will positively affect the prices of books.

“We need more investment into the education sector and I’m glad that Zimpapers has taken the lead. There’s also great potential to export some of these books and generate the much needed foreign currency,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

She said now that elections had come and gone, it was time to rebuild the nation and focus on the economy, not politics.

She also urged Zimpapers to continue on the path of innovation, growth and relevance to society.

Zimpapers general manager for the commercial printing division, Mr Njabulo Nkomo, said the decision to completely refurbish the Typocrafters premises in Bulawayo was informed by the desire to be a truly national company with physical presence throughout the country.

“In this vein, we wanted to play our part and support this noble objective of re-industrialisation. By locating in Bulawayo we were able to create employment opportunities for the residents of the city and this improves the standards of living and economic prospects of the city.

“We’re eager to participate in Government programmes and initiatives built around exercise book provision for learners. Education is a priority area for Government and we want to contribute to the education of the nation and developing the country’s future leaders,” said Mr Nkomo.

He commended the Government for its assistance through its various arms in enabling the project to see the light of day.

“It must be acknowledged that the wheels of Government have turned fast to aid the success of the project. The Zimpapers board has given direction to the division and supported its aggressive growth.

“We also acknowledge Natprint for outlaying the significant financial and time resources to give life to Typocrafters to start off life with a clean balance sheet free of debt,” said Mr Nkomo.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Mr Nick Mangwana, Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Judith Ncube, Zimpapers board chairperson Mr Delma Lupepe and board member Ms Rejoice Nharaunda as well as Zimpapers chief executive officer, Mr Pikirai Deketeke and Zimpapers management were among those who attended yesterday’s launch.

— @pamelashumba1

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