Unemployed youths turn to car washing business
Daniel attending to one of his clients at his car wash opposite New Magumeni
By Kelvin Kutinyo
Faced with economic hardship and soaring unemployment, young people in Bulawayo have turned to car washing as a viable business venture.
Daniel Msimanga, a youth from Babourfields, is among several youths that have taken advantage of the thriving business idea with the aim to alleviate financial struggles by generating income that can help cover daily expenses. His business currently employs three other youths.
In an interview last week, he stated that running the business has its challenges, but despite occasional obstacles, they are managing to handle the pressure that comes with operating a business.
“The business is going well and we pay rent of US $30 every two weeks, which is meant to cover the electricity that we use as well as water. Another uncalculated expense usually is the police which demands operating licenses, “he said.
Proportional Representation (PR) Councillor Lezina Mohamed praised the youth led car wash initiative, urging the community to support entrepreneurs and contibute to the success of their businesses.
“Youth are brave as they understand our harsh economy and appreciate the need to make an honest living. I admire youth that have the courage to beat all odds and not let the economy bring them down,” she said.
The car wash business differs from other projects in that it requires energetic and speedy workers and the job can be physically demanding while clients expect quick service.
In these scenarios, youths often showcase their entrepreneurial spirit at car washes through offering refreshments like cool drinks, water, and snacks, along with complimentary magazines and newspapers to put their clients at ease while they wait.
At Msimanga’s business, they attract clients with affordable prices where they charge US $3 for small cars and US $10 for trucks and buses. The community supports the initiative, flooding the car wash to encourage local entrepreneurship.
The car wash business is strategically situated opposite New Magumeni where it’s ready to capture a steady flow of clients who visit at various times for business or leisure activities.
Msinga added that business tends to be busier towards the weekend, as people often stay indoors during the week, making weekends the peak period for the car wash.
“During the first days of the week, we are not so busy although the business continues to operate because of some loyal clients that visit, more often early in the morning and towards lunch.”
“We are forced to open very early towards weekend as the demand is high. We usually clean a total of about 15-20 cars a day if it’s a weekend while 10-15 cars can be a maximum range in those unbusy days,” he added.
PR Councillor, Lezina Mohamed advises and encourages youths to pursue an honest living through exploring viable self-employment opportunities that can cater to their needs.
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