Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE enabling environment fostered by the Second Republic to drive growth across all sectors of the economy took centre stage at the Mashonaland West Provincial Excellence Awards held in Chinhoyi this Thursday evening.
The annual ceremony brought together stakeholders from business, agriculture, tourism, local governance, and media for a night dedicated to recognising individuals and organisations driving socio-economic transformation in the province.
Award recipients and participants said the platform not only celebrates achievement but also creates opportunities for collaboration and future growth.
“These awards motivate us to push harder. As farmers, we sometimes work behind the scenes, but tonight shows that our contribution is valued. I met potential buyers and partners here for me, that alone is a game-changer,” farmer, Mr Tichaona Mapfoche said.
“We are happy that the government is creating an enabling environment where everyone is honoured, including farmers,” pig farmer, Letwinner Nyagano said.
“For the tourism sector, visibility is everything. Being honoured tonight opens doors because people now know what we offer. I’ve already booked two meetings with investors I met right here at the event. This platform is truly connecting us,” tourism player, Kwa Terry owner, Mr Terrence Maphosa said.
“Local authorities benefit immensely from such gatherings. They allowed us to exchange ideas with industry players and identify areas where we could collaborate to improve service delivery. This event strengthens the link between councils and the communities we serve,” Zvimba RDC Chief Executive Officer, Enias Chidhakwa said.
“As Tourism and Hospitality players, we welcome such events because they create tangible networks that stimulate growth,” a businesswoman, Ms Memory Mabote said.
Government commended the organisers, emphasising that such platforms are key innovation drivers and growth as the nation moves to implement the National Development Strategy Two (NDS1).
“As a government, we remain committed to fostering an environment where businesses, innovators and community champions can thrive. Events like this align perfectly with NDS2, because they highlight excellence while encouraging sectors to work together towards national development. We will continue supporting initiatives that build strong provincial economies,” Director in the Office of the President and Cabinet for Mashonaland West, Mr Douglas Chiwiro said.
Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) walked away with the Best Media House Award, while Mashonaland West-based reporter Tamuka Charakupa was honoured as the Outstanding Journalist in the province, reaffirming the province’s growing footprint in national media excellence.
