Wilbwert Machoba
By Khadija Salimini
Wilbwert Machoba, a third-year Biomedical Engineering student at the University of Zimbabwe and CEO of Chilbur Chemicals, this year showcased his Burtrol cleaning detergents at the 65th edition of Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) held in Bulawayo.
Held from April 21 to 26, 2025, under the theme “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape”, this year’s ZITF showcased a diverse array of innovations from over 29 participating countries.
Chilbur Chemicals exhibited a diverse product line that includes dishwasher detergent, pure mukwa oil, thick bleach, and pine gel — all of which have been well-received in the market. The company is actively working to expand its footprint nationwide.
In an interview, Machoba highlighted the distinctive qualities of their products, noting that they are environment friendly, with their pine gel formulated with a mild, well-defined fragrance that is gentle on the senses. He also emphasized that their dishwasher detergent offers enhanced foaming properties for improved cleaning performance.
According to Machoba, the Burtrol brand has gained strong recognition in Harare and surrounding areas, with growing consumer demand and consistent product distribution to local retail outlets.
“Many people are buying the products and also in shops we are trading with the big and small retailers and individuals,” said Machoba.
Machoba works closely with the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs to find sponsors and market around Zimbabwe. He hailed the Ministry for supporting him in his business endeavors.
Machoba’s vision is for Burtrol to become a household name, with every home in Zimbabwe and beyond using their products.
“We are doing our best to make Burtrol a leading household name. Our goal is for every home — from the bathroom and toilet to the kitchen and living room — to use our products,” said Machoba.
He believes that promoting local manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports is crucial for Zimbabwe’s economic growth and development.
As Machoba puts it, “Under the Ministry of Veterans and Liberation Struggle, we are coming from liberators to industrialists. We have to manufacture our own products for Africa to benefit. For Zimbabwe to benefit, we have to do more exports and less imports.”
The Zimbabwean government continues to emphasize entrepreneurship and innovation as key pillars for national development. In line with this vision, universities across the country, including the University of Zimbabwe, have established innovation hubs and incubation centres.
These platforms provide students like Machoba with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to transform their ideas into thriving businesses that contribute to the economy.
This drive is part of the broader Education 5.0 policy, which moves beyond traditional teaching, research, and community service to include innovation and industrialization.
Through embedding entrepreneurial thinking within the education system, Zimbabwe aims to produce graduates who are not just job seekers, but job creators and industrialists, capable of propelling the nation towards an Upper Middle Income Economy.
