Industry Concern on Incidents at Nestlé Zimbabwe (Pvt.) Ltd.

We note with concern events unfolding at Nestle Zimbabwe (Pvt.) Limited resulting in the arrest and subsequent release of Mr. Kumbirayi Katsande Chairman of Nestlé Zimbabwe, plus temporary closure of operations.

While we do not take sides regarding issues informing these events, we wish to highlight our concern that the fragile economic recovery underway should not be adversely affected by perceptions of inappropriate actions to dealing with simple commercial issues.

We are relieved and satisfied that due processes are now underway and confirm our confidence in the relevant Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s ability to deal with any pertinent issues. As industrialists and business people we appeal to the authorities to nurture our nascent industrial recovery and avoid any actions that signal a reverse direction. As Zimbabweans, we also demand that our collective effort to enhance economic recovery should never be compromised.

Business remains confident of the Inclusive Government’s ability to deal with these issues professionally and fairly. It is our sincere hope that Nestlé Zimbabwe will open very soon and that an amicable solution to the current situation will be found urgently.

Joseph Kanyekanye   Vice-President – Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries

Victor Gapare    President – Chamber of Mines

Obert Sibanda    President – Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce

The Financial Gazette (December 24-30, 2009)