Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Online Reporter
BRAHMAN pedigree breeder Mr Jairos Mahlangu has been named the Small Scale Farmer of the Year in recognition of a successful cattle breeding venture run in a village.
Mr Mahlangu runs Hlango Ranch in a communal area in Mbalabala, where he has defied the odds by breeding Brahman pedigree cattle in a village.
The majority of successful cattle breeders in the Matabeleland region have access to large tracts of land on either plots or farms.
He was awarded, among other farmers, entrepreneurs, businesses and non-profit organisations at the Matabeleland South Province’s 2025 Investment Awards at a local resort on Friday.
The awards were organised by the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC).
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, was the guest of honour.
The Matabeleland South Province’s 2025 Investment Awards is an event that seeks to recognise individuals and organisations that have done well in different spheres of business operations.
“The awards have been modelled in such a way that ensures transparency and inclusivity,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
The awards were held under the being the theme: “Celebrating Resilience and Achievement in Matabeleland South”.
“To all the award recipients, your dedication, resilience, and vision reflect the spirit of progress that defines our province. I urge you to continue accelerating on this path.
“As the business community, your contributions are vital to building a competitive and inclusive provincial economy in the spirit of involving everyone, leaving no place and no one behind.”
Mr Mahlangu said the award is a reward for the hard work by the team at Hlango Ranch.
“We are excited to receive this prestigious award, acknowledging our tireless efforts at Hlango Ranch. This award serves as a powerful motivator, driving us to continue striving for excellence and contributing to Zimbabwe’s agricultural growth.
“We hope our achievement inspires fellow farmers to pursue innovation and dedication, benefiting our nation and the citizens,” said Mr Mahlangu.
Orange Ville Trading Pvt Ltd was awarded the Overall Investor of the Year, while the Best Foreign Direct Investment Award went to Xintai Palm River Energy and Metallurgical SEZ.
The Best Local Investor Award in the Small and Medium Enterprises category was given to Baccosi Investments, while Dambari Wildlife Trust took home the Sustainable Development & ESG Impact Award.
Mr Kadelwa Joab Ndlovu was named the Best Youth-Led Enterprise, while the Women in Business Leadership Award went to
Mrs Jannet Taruvinga.
