Jacob Kupa, CEO of AVM Africa (Pvt) Ltd, has signed an agreement with Minsk Automobile-Belarus for the local manufacture of buses in Zimbabwe using Belarusian technology. This significant collaboration will lead to the production of approximately 50 buses monthly, benefiting 92 local companies involved in the production process. The initiative is expected to create job opportunities, save foreign currency, and enhance urban transportation in Zimbabwe. Acknowledgements were extended to President Dr. ED Mnangagwa and the Zimbabwean government, represented by the Ministry of Industry, for their support.
The Vice President General (Rtd) Dr. CGDN Chiwenga presided over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AVM Africa and Minsk Auto Mobile Plant of Belarus. The objective of the MOU is to address transportation challenges by supplying buses suitable for both rural and urban use.
During the Zimbabwe Belarus Business Forum in Harare on February 19, 2024, Chiwenga officially unveiled the AVM Protype City Bus, marking a milestone in local bus manufacturing. AVM Africa and Minsk Auto Mobile Plant of Belarus have committed to providing buses tailored for diverse transportation needs.
AVM Africa, formerly known as W. Dahmer and Company since its establishment in 1961 by Messrs W. Dahmer and Brennett, has undergone transformation over the years. Following acquisitions by Lonhro in the late seventies and later by KSM Holdings under K.S Musanhi in 2002, the company partnered with City-Card Pvt Ltd, a Chinese-owned entity, in 2019, breathing new life into its operations.
The company’s production capacity allows for the manufacture of up to 40 buses monthly through double shifts, supporting a workforce of up to 2,500 individuals during peak periods. Additionally, AVM Africa has fostered employment opportunities for 85 downstream companies that provide services, materials, and parts, thereby contributing to job creation in various sectors. Notable examples include Dunlop and PG Glass in Mutare.
City-Card supplies knocked-down kits for bus assembly at AVM’s facility, operating in a joint venture with Sino-Zimbabwe Company in partnership with three Chinese firms.
