Online Reporter
Obey Sibanda, Zimpapers Writer
Zanu PF politician and Bulawayo businessman Cde Brian Samuriwo has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Entrepreneurs and Business Awards (NEBA) held in Bulawayo on Saturday night.
Cde Samuriwo is the ruling party’s Bulawayo business committee chairperson and the shadow Member of Parliament for Luveve/Emakhandeni constituency.
Hosted by Youth Network Connect, the awards celebrated the contributions of individuals and businesses to the community and the nation.
Cde Samuriwo received a shield and certificate, recognising not just his business acumen, but also his unwavering commitment to social responsibility.
Through the Brian Samuriwo Foundation, he has initiated a health expo that provides free medical care to vulnerable populations, emphasising his dedication to community well-being.
In an interview, Cde Samuriwo revealed the personal motivations behind his philanthropic efforts citing that he was inspired by the loss of his grandmother, Susan Chipangura, to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Since 2022, we have been working diligently with healthcare professionals to ensure that the elderly receive regular free check-ups,” he said.
Beyond healthcare, Cde Samuriwo champions Kasi tourism through his popular chill spot, Ko Samuriwo Pub and Grill which has created over 60 jobs with the majority of them females. He also has made significant contributions to the community by drilling boreholes and supporting neighborhood watch committees with necessary equipment to execute their duties.
The award ceremony was infused with an atmosphere of inspiration and ambition, reinforcing the essential role of the business sector in national development. Each nominee and recipient was chosen through a rigorous public and industry voting process, adding weight to the accolades.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Samuriwo expressed gratitude to the organisers and reaffirmed his commitment to assisting the vulnerable.
“This award isn’t for me alone, but for all of us in Bulawayo,” he said.
“Without the community, I wouldn’t be the Brian Samuriwo known today. My efforts would have gone unnoticed.”
Youth Network Connect’s Chairperson, Philimon Nyirenda, articulated the purpose of the awards in his opening address. “Tonight, we gather not simply to crown achievement, but to illuminate the very definition of excellence in our business landscape,” he said.
Nyirenda emphasised that the awards aim to celebrate those who exemplify innovation, integrity, and positive impact.
A total of 45 entrepreneurs and businesses were acknowledged for their remarkable contributions across various fields. Notable winners included Never Ncube for Best CEO in the corporate sector (UTANDE), BUNTU FOODS PVT LTD for Best Local Food Product of the Year, and Violet Mhute, recognised as Outstanding Business Woman of the Year.
Other distinguished awards included Nokukhanya Masumbika as Best Upcoming Female Entrepreneur, Tapfuma Gurajena for Business Excellence and Leadership, and Xolani Dube for Outstanding CEO of the Year (Slice Pizzeria).
