Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
IN a landmark achievement for the provincial business community, renowned entrepreneur, Ms Rumbidzai Masara has shattered a longstanding glass ceiling by becoming the first woman elected Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce Manicaland Provincial chairman.
Her election marks a significant milestone, not only for the chamber, but also for the advancement of women in leadership within Zimbabwe’s business sector.
For decades, the position has been held by men, making Ms Masara’s ascension a powerful symbol of progress, inclusion, and the growing influence of female entrepreneurs in shaping the country’s economic future.
A respected businesswoman, Ms Masara has built an impressive reputation across several industries.
She is the driving force behind successful ventures in haulage and logistics, construction, agribusiness and property development – sectors traditionally dominated by men.
Through determination, innovation and strategic leadership, she has grown her enterprises into formidable businesses that contribute to economic development and job creation.
In an interview, Ms Masara expressed gratitude to the business community for the confidence placed in her leadership. She said her elevation proves that women are making inroads in the once male-dominated sectors and are bringing positive change to communities.
“This is, not just a personal achievement, but a recognition for every woman who has dared to dream beyond traditional boundaries. It demonstrates that leadership opportunities are open to all those who are willing to work hard, innovate, and serve their communities. This is actually an honour, and I am very humbled because since its inception, ZNCC has never been led by a female in Manicaland, as it was always chaired by men.
“It is a challenges for me as well because I have to showcase what women can do in positions of influence. I am going to implement what is there and bring in new ideas and rejuvenate the organisation. To other women out there I encourage them to work hard and never give up. Zimbabwe is open for business and open for everybody including women. Their various organisations and sectors including ZNCC which can help and assist women to excel in business. Most of the barriers that used to hinder women have been removed as the government has been implementing various policies to empower women to start their own businesses,” she said.
Ms Masara began at the grassroots, working in her father’s companies including Masara Transport, a service station and farm.
Her hard work and resilience saw her venture into property development and construction. Her efforts have seen her appointed to both public and private boards, as her entrepreneurial skills are sought after.
“I gained my business experience at Masara Transport which was a family business run by my late father. I have over 20 years’ working experience in the haulage industry which is not an easy feat. Haulage business is still a male dominated sector, but I have managed to make inroads in that environment which saw me winning several accolades that include second runner-up provincial and national businesswoman of the year (2009), second runner-up transporter of the year (2010), transport logistic company of the year (2015) and empowered Woman resilience award (2024), among others.
“I am the Apex Board Manicaland Provincial chairperson under the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development. I am a board member for the Bullion Group of Companies and a patron of Junior Achievement. I once served as a Mutare City Council commissioner.
We are also into farming – tobacco, maize and other crops. We have also ventured into property development through our company, Southland Regional Property where we are developing an exclusive gated community in Vumba and another development in Greenside Extension. We also have a construction company, Monumental Ventures, which is based in Mutare and Harare, and carries out works across the country. Currently, I am studying for a Master’s in Business in Administration, specialising in Project Management with the University of Zambia, and also undertaking various online courses, especially on Artificial Intelligence. I am a firm believer in continuous education and personal development because the world is evolving, hence the need to acquire new skills to remain relevant,” said Ms Masara.
Her rise to the helm of one of the country’s most influential business organisations reflects years of dedication and commitment to enterprise development.
Colleagues describe her as a visionary leader whose business acumen, resilience and passion for empowering others have earned her widespread respect across the province.
As chairperson, Ms Masara is expected to champion policies that promote business growth, investment and economic recovery in Manicaland.
Stakeholders are optimistic that her extensive experience in transport, infrastructure development and real estate will bring fresh perspectives to the Chamber’s agenda.
Her appointment comes at a time when Zimbabwe is increasingly recognising the critical role women play in driving economic growth.
As she assumes office, expectations are high that her leadership will strengthen collaboration between the private sector, government and development partners while advancing the interests of businesses across Manicaland.
For many, Ms Masara’s election is more than a leadership transition — it is a defining moment that signals a new chapter for business leadership in Zimbabwe, one where talent, vision and capability take precedence over gender.
