Peter Matika, Zimpapers Writer
MECHANICS from across Bulawayo put their technical expertise, diagnostic skills and knowledge of automotive lubricants to the test during the second edition of the Caltex Havoline Makanika Challenge, an initiative aimed at recognising and rewarding excellence among vehicle technicians.
The held competition on Saturday, brought mechanics into the spotlight, challenging them to demonstrate their understanding of engine performance, vehicle maintenance and lubrication solutions, while reinforcing the importance of technical proficiency in the automotive industry.
The challenge comes as Caltex Braford Lubricants marks 20 years of distributing the Caltex brand in Zimbabwe, coinciding with the 2026 edition of the competition.
Caltex Braford Lubricants Marketing Executive, Mrs Sindisiwe Zinyuke, said the challenge was part of the company’s efforts to engage mechanics, strengthen relationships with industry players and promote knowledge of quality lubricants.
She said the competition provided an opportunity for mechanics to showcase their abilities while gaining a deeper understanding of products and lubrication technologies that contribute to engine protection and durability.
Mrs Zinyuke said the company’s two-decade journey in Zimbabwe reflected its commitment to supplying quality lubricants and supporting industries that depend on reliable equipment and machinery.
“Caltex Braford Lubricants is a division of Braford Investments (Private) Limited, a Zimbabwean company incorporated in January 2003. It is the official distributor of Caltex-branded lubricants in the country under a distributorship licence from Astron Energy (Pty) Ltd,” she said.
The company operates three warehouses in Bulawayo, Hwange and Harare, serving customers across sectors including mining, agriculture, manufacturing, transport, railways, construction and retail.
Its lubricant range includes products formulated with ISOSYN and Deposit Shield technologies, designed to provide wear protection for critical engine components, improve durability and help minimise operating costs.
She said beyond product distribution, the company provides technical support through lubrication engineers who offer training and tailored solutions to improve equipment performance, reduce maintenance expenses and extend the lifespan of machinery through proactive management and condition monitoring.
“Caltex Braford Lubricants has also built a record of recognition within the Astron Energy distribution network in the Southern African Development Community region, with its awards dating back to 2013,” she said.
In 2022, the company received the Caltex Top Distributor of the Year award and a Business Excellence award after becoming the first Caltex distributor to reach three million litres in sales.
It also received a Chevron certificate recognising growth of more than 300 percent between 2019 and 2023, alongside Astron Energy awards for operational excellence and second place in 2024.
In 2025, the company received several accolades, including the Five Million Club Award, Distributor of the Year Award, Export Distributor Award, Operational Excellence Award, Annual Volume Growth Award, Annual Volume Target Award and Marketing Award.
The Caltex brand, owned by Chevron, is an established petroleum products brand supplying lubricants for different operating conditions.
Mrs Zinyuke said Caltex Braford Lubricants it remained committed to supporting the communities in which it operates and maintaining high health, environmental and safety standards, guided by its motto: “Zero harm is possible!”
