Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza
Herald Reporter
ZANU-PF’s shadow Member of Parliament for Southerton constituency, Mr Andrew Makahamadze, has been awarded the prestigious Kiran Jack’s Floating Trophy for 2025 in recognition of his compassion, leadership and community empowerment.
The Kiran Jack Floating Trophy honours the legacy of the late Kiran Jack, a young man remembered for courage, service and community spirit, who died in April this year at the age of 23.
The late Jack, a talented rugby player and passionate community servant, passed away due to an undiagnosed heart condition.
The award celebrates and honours unsung heroes who embody the values of kindness, empathy, and community dedication.
Announcing the award, committee leader, Ms Maya Jack, said Cde Makahamadze serves quietly yet powerfully.
“His humility and resilience reflect the spirit of this trophy, which honours unsung heroes whose kindness transforms lives,” she added.
Ms Jack said that Mr Makahamadze’s work has left a permanent mark in Southerton and communities beyond, with his efforts embodying the values of unity, empathy and justice at the grassroots level.
“Mr Makahamadze partnered with local enterprises to launch large-scale poultry projects that have enabled more than 100 000 women and youths to establish sustainable chicken production ventures,” she said.
“These initiatives have provided reliable income streams and restored dignity to disadvantaged groups,” she added.
In response to Harare’s water shortages, he founded Gad Holdings, a company that manufactures water tanks and offers affordable harvesting and storage solutions.
The enterprise not only addressed household and small business needs but also created employment opportunities.
Cde Makahamadze, who is also chairman of the Southerton Constituency Community Development Trust, has promoted the role of artistes in driving social change.
Under his leadership, the trust expanded its influence, supporting projects such as the Sally Mugabe Central Hospital water initiative and extending benefits to marginalised communities across Zimbabwe.
He also defended smallholder farmers in Rugare when their vegetable gardens faced demolition by the Reformed Church. By rallying legal support, Mr Makahamadze safeguarded livelihoods already strained by the pandemic.
Ms Jack said, in the health sector, Mr Makahamadze secured vital equipment for Mbare Clinic, including blood pressure machines, and advocated for interest-free loans to assist struggling vendor’s initiatives that have particularly supported women in reviving their businesses.
“In acknowledging Mr Makahamadze, we honour not only his personal efforts, but also the values he has inspired such as unity, empathy, justice, and unwavering community spirit,” said Ms Jack.
The Permanent Secretary for Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Cosmas Chiringa, congratulated Mr Makahamadze for winning such a prestigious award.
“I have not physically had a tete-a-tete with you, but through the phone, reading what you write and also hearing from the political leadership that included my Minister, Honourable Senator Charles Tawengwa. I have noted that you have passionately dedicated your life to working for the downtrodden in society,” he said.
“All I have learnt in my conversation with you is that you have people at heart and the propensity in you in wanting to fully assist and uplift these disadvantaged and vulnerable people in your constituency is deeply rooted in your heart.
“If all could have that big heart, attaining Vision 2030 as set by this country would be easily attainable. On behalf of Harare Metropolitan Province, and on my own behalf and my family, “I would like to congratulate you for winning such an award bestowed on you by the Kiran Jack’s Floating Trophy Award. May the Almighty God continue to bless you with that selfless big heart to assist others in our communities.”
