dyton mupawaenda
Herald Reporter
PROMINENT businessman and philanthropist Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei has been honoured with the Global Award of Excellency for his commitment to uplifting Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) owned education institutions around the country and beyond.
He became the first African to receive the award in the history of the SDA church at a ceremony held on Saturday at Solusi University in Matabeleland South.
In a statement, the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church said: “His initiatives, both within and outside the Seventh-day Adventist Church, have left an indelible mark on the world of education.
“As the founder of the BGF Foundation, Dr Tagwirei has spearheaded numerous projects that have redefined capacity building and transformed infrastructure development across educational institutions.”
Some of the projects that earned Dr Tagwirei the award include the installation of a comprehensive turnkey irrigation system at Mananda Farm, featuring an electrical and pump plant, conveyance systems, infield setups, fencing, and telemetry control systems.
He also installed over 9km of pipeline for five of the six centre pivots, covering 127 hectares, alongside 5 850 metres of perimeter fencing, and enhanced water access through the drilling of six boreholes (three operational) and the fabrication of a pontoon at Mananda Dam.
Dr Tagwirei also donated nine Sporting Utility Vehicles, two double-cab vehicles for senior personnel, one single-cab truck, two UD lorries, two buses with 65-passenger capacity each, and five tractors.
In addition, he implemented a notable salary increase and monthly allowances for teaching and non-teaching staff, coupled with a reduction in canteen meal prices from US$2 to just 50 cents as part of his commitment to fostering a nurturing and supportive educational environment.
In his acceptance speech, Dr Tagwirei said: “This honour holds immense significance for me—not just personally, but for my entire family. As a fourth-generation Adventist, this recognition is not merely a personal achievement; it is a testament to the foundation of faith and service that has been laid by those who came before me. It is a moment that solidifies our family’s legacy of commitment to God’s work and His mission,” he said.
Dr Tagwirei also said it was one thing to give to God and to return what rightfully belongs to Him.
“For me, Solusi University has been more than just an institution; it is a pillar of Adventist education, a beacon of excellence, and a centre of influence,” Dr Tagwireyi added.
Dr Lisa Beardsley Hardy, the SDA General Conference World Headquarters Department of Education Director, said Dr Tagwirei had made significant contributions to SDA, hence the award.
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Online Reporter