Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
PHILANTHROPY in Africa will take centre stage at the CADAV Philanthropic Awards scheduled for 28 March 2026, an event set to recognise individuals and organisations involved in community development initiatives across the continent.
Speaking ahead of the awards, CADAV founder Dr Lot Mudhimburanwa said his interest in philanthropy was shaped by his 25-year experience at Copota School for the Blind, where he observed the impact of inclusive education on visually impaired learners.
“I saw blind learners empowered through education to become lawyers, teachers, musicians and professionals,” he said.
Dr Mudhimburanwa said the awards were established to acknowledge community leaders working in areas such as education, healthcare and economic empowerment.
“To date, more than 500 community leaders have been recognised through the awards,” he said.
This year’s recipients include Pote, Makanaka Investments, Professor Kasese and Dr Kasese, Hon Andrew Makahamadze and Mr Josephat Thompson, among others.
Dr Mudhimburanwa said organising the awards has presented challenges, particularly in mobilising financial resources and coordinating large-scale events.
He said CADAV identifies community needs through engagement with award recipients and community leaders, with challenges raised during ceremonies used to inform future interventions.
Dr Mudhimburanwa said CADAV operates as a registered trust and a private entity, enabling it to engage with communities across the country.
He said nomination for the awards reflects recognition of work being done at community level and the expectation that recipients continue contributing towards national development priorities.
Dr Mudhimburanwa also encouraged young people to participate in community development initiatives, saying meaningful impact can begin with limited resources.
He said CADAV’s work focuses on recognising individuals and institutions working with people with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups.
Dr Mudhimburanwa paid tribute to philanthropists Dr Strive Masiyiwa and Mrs Tsitsi Masiyiwa for supporting his academic studies.
