Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti-Herald Reporter
At least 80 entrepreneurs were honoured at the second Harare Excellence and Business Awards amid calls for stronger public-private partnerships, localisation and entrepreneurship to drive Zimbabwe’s economic growth and national development.
Held under the theme; “Revitalising Zimbabwe’s Development Agenda through Strategic Public-Private Collaboration,” the event highlighted the role of partnerships in driving economic growth, youth empowerment and national development.
Guest of honour Native Investments Africa Group and Pinnacle Property Holdings chairman, Dr Philip Chiyangwa, urged Zimbabweans to adopt a business mindset and take advantage of local opportunities, saying the country’s future lies in entrepreneurship, innovation and strategic investment.
“Zimbabwe does not lack opportunities, what we need is vision, boldness and action. We must move from being consumers to becoming producers and investors,” he said.
He added that national development requires strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, emphasising that entrepreneurship, innovation and investment are key drivers of economic transformation.
Drawing from his entrepreneurial experience, Dr Chiyangwa encouraged young people to be resilient and pursue business ventures that create employment and transform communities.
He said collaboration between the Government and private sector is essential in sectors such as infrastructure, housing, mining and agriculture.
He also challenged entrepreneurs to invest in projects that uplift communities and contribute to national development, rather than focusing solely on personal gain.
Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya, described the awards as a platform that celebrates excellence, resilience and the potential of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs and youth.
“This is an event that celebrates excellence, resilience and the remarkable potential of our nation, particularly the youth. It is a bridge that unites various sectors of society in pursuit of a shared vision for Zimbabwe’s prosperity.
“The theme underscores the importance of collaboration and how collective efforts can transform Zimbabwe into a resilient economy driven by inclusive growth. Entrepreneurs cannot succeed in isolation.”
Deputy Minister Jesaya said building partnerships between the Government, the private sector, civil society and citizens is key to achieving Vision 2030.
She also highlighted the role of sports, arts and culture as strategic drivers of social cohesion, national identity and economic growth.
“Our cultural industries, creative talents and sporting excellence are not merely entertainment; they are strategic assets that can elevate Zimbabwe onto the global stage,” she said.
She added that the ministry is committed to promoting music, film, fashion, sports and arts as engines of innovation, employment creation and international visibility.
Local Government and Public Works Deputy Minister Albert Mavhunga, said the awards celebrated not only business excellence, but also the resilience of Zimbabwe’s entrepreneurial community.
“Tonight, we are not just celebrating winners; we are celebrating the spirit of resilience that defines the Harare business community. While excellence is individual, national prosperity is collective,” he said.
He said the Government and the private sector must work in partnership, describing the relationship as a bridge, rather than a divide.
“For too long, the narrative suggested separation between the public and private sectors. But I believe the fence must become a bridge,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of Public-Private Partnerships in infrastructure development, transport systems, digital transformation and sustainable energy.
Organiser of the awards, Philimon Nyirenda, said the initiative promoted localisation, devolution and sustainable economic growth.
He said the awards were part of efforts to harness local talent for community and national development.
