MONA-LISA DUBE
The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC), Harare Chapter chairperson Tinashe Mutarisi (pictured) has called on the banking sector to look into ways of making it easier for start-up businesses to obtain capital to bankroll their projects.
In an interview with the Business Times, the Nash Holdings founder said there is a need for financial institutions to also model their facilities around the informal sector which, to a greater extent, has become the hub of economic activity in Zimbabwe.
“Banks should take time to properly study business plans that are sent to them and invest in the growth of small to medium businesses (SMEs). As the business sector we are also happy to play our part in mentoring and guiding young entrepreneurs. There is therefore a need for collaborations to ensure we do not dismiss business ideas that have potential to grow the economy” .
Mutarisi who also sits on the Banc ABC board, says he will use his position to influence favourable conditions for young entrepreneurs adding that his new post within ZNCC will give him more access to budding businesses.
“I received my first ever recognition as a businessman from ZNCC as a young entrepreneur years ago. And to this day I believe that has contributed immensely to my growth in business, he said.
“I think Zimbabweans are hardworking by nature. The drive is there and quite a number have an idea of how to build a business of their own.
There is therefore a need for industry and government to work together in order to create a conducive environment for this new-generation of entrepreneurs. As ZNCC, we will also focus on mentoring and running a number of programmes aimed at capacity development”
Speaking on his passion for the arts sector, which saw the creation of Nash TV Mutarisi says the industry has potential to contribute to the country’s GDP if various stakeholders played their part.
“I believe with the right support, the creative industry can contribute to the national GDP of the country . If you look at countries like South Africa and Nigeria you’ll see that the music industry has created millionaires and I would really like to see the same happening for musicians in my country. The business community and the government as well, need to play their part to ensure we grow the arts sector.”
“I feel compelled to play my part in sustaining the industry and in helping upcoming musicians to achieve their dreams. It’s my way of giving back to the people,” said Mutarisi.
