Over 200 Businesses Devastated in Bulawayo Inferno—Entrepreneurs Plead for Help
BULAWAYO – More than 200 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have suffered severe losses after a fire swept through Save The Nation Industrial Site on Monday night, destroying machinery, goods, and workspaces.
The cause of the blaze remains unknown, leaving affected entrepreneurs devastated and calling for urgent intervention to help them recover.
Business owners described the destruction as a catastrophic financial and emotional setback, with many losing investments built over the years.
“It took us more than 10 years to establish our businesses, and now everything is gone,” lamented one distressed entrepreneur.
Another added, “We have no means to rebuild. We are pleading for support from the government and stakeholders—this is our only source of income.”
According to ZBC, Bulawayo Chamber of SMEs Programme Coordinator Nketha Dlamini confirmed the fire and stated that assessments are underway to determine the full extent of the damage before seeking assistance.
“We are deeply saddened by what happened to our fellow SMEs. Right now, we are evaluating the losses before engaging relevant partners to provide support,” Dlamini said.
The incident has reignited concerns about disaster preparedness and emergency response within Zimbabwe’s business sector.
SMEs play a crucial role in the nation’s economy, contributing more than 50% of employment while fostering industrial growth.
The fire has sparked urgent discussions on how small businesses can be better protected from unforeseen crises.
