Online Reporter
Emmanuel Kafe
Herald Reporter
FOUR Government-run enterprises – the Lotteries and Gaming Board, TelOne, Grain Marketing Board (GMB), and the National Biotechnology Authority – emerged as standout winners at the Global Business Achievers Network (GBAN) awards in the capital this week.
The annual event, which celebrates excellence and innovation in leadership across various sectors, saw the State-owned entities scooping top honours in recognition of their role in driving national development and industry leadership.
Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa, director of Sport in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, who also chairs the Lotteries and Gaming Board, was recognised under the 2025 Legacy in Pioneering category.
She made history as the first female chairperson to lead the parastatal, earning acclaim for ushering in reforms that have revitalised the gaming sector.
TelOne chief executive Engineer Lawrence Nkala was presented with the 2025 CEO Excellence in Telecoms Technology award, acknowledging his role in spearheading digital transformation and improving connectivity in both urban and rural Zimbabwe.
At the helm of national food security, GMB boss Dr Edson Badarai received the 2025 CEO Legacy of Excellence in National Food Security award, credited for strengthening strategic grain reserves and streamlining grain intake systems across the country.
Meanwhile, Dr Dexter Savadye, head of the National Biotechnology Authority, was honoured for his leadership in scientific innovation with the 2025 CEO Legacy of Excellence in Biotechnology award.
Other notable recipients included Sharon Maparura of Cairns Foods and Dr Wellington Koke of Direct Contact, who were awarded for their contributions to the food industry and education sector, respectively.
Speaking during the ceremony, GBAN chief executive officer Dr Tendesai Mushamba hailed the winners as “torchbearers of innovation and resilience” and urged stakeholders to embrace collaboration and mentorship to propel national progress.
“Our award recipients tonight remind us that excellence is never accidental – it is the result of dedication, vision, and the ability to adapt in a rapidly shifting landscape,” Dr Mushamba said.
“Their success is not just personal; it reflects the collaborative spirit of our business ecosystem.”
He also stressed the role of networking and relationship-building in fostering growth, echoing business magnate Richard Branson’s words: “Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming.”
Online Reporter