Maravi

(HERALD) Indigenise Nestle: AAG

Indigenise Nestle: AAG
Herald Reporters

The Affirmative Action Group has implored Government to indigenise Nestle Zimbabwe, saying its decision to stop buying milk from Gushungo Dairy Estate was illegal and against the spirit of the Global Political Agreement.

Addressing journalists in Harare yesterday, AAG president Mr Supa Mandiwanzira, said Nestle Zimbabwe’s actions were a result of failing to indigenise some of the local firms.

"As AAG, we cannot accept this continued harassment of the Head of State. The First Family is a symbol of economic empowerment and they have taken a battering, simply because of the steps they have taken to empower the majority.

"We are taking a legal approach against Nestle Zimbabwe and not a confrontational approach. What we are now seeing are the consequences of not indigenising. Nestle Zimbabwe should be indigenised," said Mr Mandiwanzira.

He defended the indigenisation programme, saying it should be viewed as a guarantor of any foreign investment.

"Indigenisation is a guarantor of investment. Anyone who wants to operate in Zimbabwe should partner locals so that they secure their investment," he said.

Mr Mandiwanzira said the refusal by the Switzerland headquartered company to purchase milk from the First Family’s dairy farm was illegal.

"It is illegal to segregate customers and it is illegal to segregate suppliers. They are against the laws of the country. We cannot have a company operating in Zimbabwe perpetuating an imperialistic agenda. It is unacceptable and Nestle Zimbabwe has crossed the line.

"When the Prime Minister was in Spain, he called for the removal of the restrictive measures.

"Nestle Zimbabwe’s actions are going against the gain in the inclusive Government and the progress it has made. Nestle Zimbabwe has buckled under the pressure of right wing Rhodies who do not want the inclusive Government to work," said Mr Mandiwanzira.

Labels: BEE, DAIRY, GLOBAL POLITICAL AGREEMENT

posted by MrK @ 10:10 PM