The Association of Small and Medium-sized Mozambican Enterprises (APME) has begun a survey of the damage suffered by its members during the recent violent demonstrations, which took place in various parts of the country and culminated in acts of vandalism.
According to Radio Moçambique, the aim of the action is to quantify the damage and identify the financial needs for the recovery of the enterprises that were vandalised and looted.
The president of APME, Osvaldo Matúe, described the situation as an ‘emergency’ for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): ‘It’s time to think about actions and not discuss problems.’
Cláudio Pondja, the organisation’s vice-president, called on commercial banks to see SMEs as an engine for the country’s development: ‘I would like to call on the financial system, in this case the commercial banks, to pay special attention to the companies that have actually been affected, thus allowing them to be restructured.’
For him, a speedy recovery depends, among other factors, on the support of the financial system: ‘The banks can offer periods of scarcity that are in line with the needs of the companies themselves, which is fundamental at this critical time.’
At national level, APME currently has around 1,200 members, who invest and operate in various areas of activity. By surveying losses and seeking solutions, the association hopes to build a more solid future for the country’s SMEs.
