Water scarcity impedes growth of Swazi apparel firms
17 Mar '12
1 min read
The scarcity of water is impeding expansion of two Nhlangano-based textile and apparel companies.
The two firms – Zheng Yong and Ho's Enterprise – claimed that water shortage, which has became a routine for them, is restraining them from accepting large orders that involve washing of garments, which, in turn, is greatly affecting their production capacity.
Speaking during an Africa Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA) training session, Ho's Enterprise Manager Jean Abris said besides non-availability of water in adequate quantity for washing purposes, the available water is also expensive.
She shared that the factories of the two companies do not undertake their garment washing process simultaneously, as it involves utilisation of water in large volumes.
Positively reacting to this, Mandla Nkambule, Director of Domestic Investment and After Care with the Swaziland Investment Promotions Authority (SIPA), stated that the Swaziland Water Services Corporation (SWSC) is aware of the problem and is working to get it resolved.
He said SWSC has always ensured adequate water supply to all its consumers and would soon find a solution to the issue.
Since 2000, AGOA has helped in creating better business atmosphere, and thereby, it has attracted new investments in many African nations.