Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter
IT was a night of celebration last Friday evening as the Public Service Commission (PSC) honoured its most outstanding workers at a vibrant awards ceremony that was held at a local hotel in Bulawayo.
The event was a lively tribute to dedication and service, recognising public servants who have gone above and beyond in their duties.
Dubbed the PSC Honourable and Awards Ceremony — Matabele Fusion, the occasion was further enlivened by delegates donning traditional attire, adding a distinctly Zimbabwean elegance to the proceedings.
The awards marked the grand finale of a four-day strategic planning workshop held in Bulawayo, where senior officials and staff from various departments gathered to chart the organisation’s future.
Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Edgar Moyo, who graced the event, reaffirmed the Government’s steadfast support for creating a conducive work environment for all public servants.
Minister Moyo praised the strong partnership between his Ministry and the PSC.
“This gathering is a celebration of excellence, service, and shared vision as a testament to the enduring partnership between my Ministry and the Public Service Commission. Ours is a relationship of purpose and trust, anchored on the mutual pursuit of a capable, inclusive, and citizen-centred public service that drives the national development agenda,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of recognising every public servant.
“The PSC affirms that every public servant matters, regardless of rank, gender, or background, embodying the spirit of President Mnangagwa’s call to leave no one and no place behind.”
Minister Moyo also underscored the connection between a motivated workforce and national development.
“Vision 2030 will only be realised through a motivated, competent and ethical workforce.”
He commended the PSC’s reform efforts, especially in merit-based recruitment and its proactive role in the Public Service Amendment Bill.
The evening sparkled with applause as winners in 19 categories were announced, their achievements shining brightly alongside the elegant traditional wear.
Highlights included Mr Mike Mugabe, Payroll Officer from the Payroll Management Department, who won both the Wellness Enthusiast Award and the overall Performance Award, decided by popular vote.
The Chairman’s Award went to Mr Bernard Dumwa, Manager of ICT in the Technology, Innovation and Development Department, highlighting the vital role of digital transformation in public service.
The Secretary’s Award, recognising entire departments, was won by the Monitoring and Evaluation Department for their pioneering work in digital data collection and real-time reporting dashboards, greatly enhancing data integrity.
In leadership categories, Mr Twoboy Shoko, Paymaster from Payroll Management, was named Most Supportive Leader in senior management, while Mr Andrew Chimanyiwa, Provincial Development Co-ordinator for Midlands Province, was awarded Most Supportive Leader — Provincial Co-ordinators and also secured First Runner-up in the Chairman’s Award.
Other notable winners included Mr Blessing Muhakichi, recipient of the Chrysalis Award and Mr Hillary Fungai Ngoma, honoured as the Office Support Star.
Ms Portia Chiinze from the Investment Department won the Outstanding Service Award, while Ms Isabel Ncube from Elangeni Campus was recognised for Culinary Excellence.
