Takudzwa Mangrozah
Herald Reporter
SECRETARIES need to be appreciated as they are the backbones of organisations and are the ones who keep them running smoothly, Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga has said.
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga, who is the wife of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, was speaking during the 2025 edition of the annual National Secretaries Day hosted by Nedle Training Services at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) recently.
“Secretaries are the first point of contact, the last to leave and often the unsung heroes who keep our organisations running smoothly. Your dedication, professionalism and multitasking abilities are truly commendable,” she said.
She applauded secretaries for their resilience and resourcefulness, which she said has had a huge impact on the economy.
“We have seen secretaries start their own businesses, create employment opportunities for others and improve their economic stability,” she said.
“These success stories are a testament to the potential that lies within each and every one of you,” she noted, adding that with continued support, “every secretary can retire with dignity, financially independent and self-sufficient.”
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, who was represented by Councillor Rufaro Matsika of Borrowdale, echoed the same sentiments, highlighting the city’s commitment to supporting secretaries.
“Your dedication, professionalism and expertise are the backbone of our organisations, and your contributions are invaluable,” he said.
He praised the growth and confidence being instilled in secretaries through training initiatives. “The impact of these efforts is evident in the growth and confidence of secretaries who have benefited from these programmes,” he said.
The mayor encouraged secretaries to embrace professional development as a lifelong journey.
“Professional development is not just about acquiring new skills; it is about staying relevant, adaptable and competitive in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
“Never stop learning, never stop growing and never stop striving for excellence.”
Both speakers commended Nedle for its unwavering dedication to advancing the interests of secretaries and called for more partnerships to sustain empowerment programmes.
The event drew 489 participants.



