Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWE emerged as a standout performer at the 10th Africa Public Service Day Commemorations held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, clinching both Gold and Silver awards for its exceptional exhibition display.
The country was honoured with awards for Best Pavilion and Best Managed Exhibition Stand at the continental event held on Monday, which brought together representatives from across Africa to showcase innovative public service practices and reforms.
Chief director of Labour Administration, Employment Services and Promotion in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Mr Clifford Matorera, who led the Zimbabwean delegation to the continental event, received the prestigious awards at a dinner hosted by the Federal Civil Service Commission of Ethiopia.
“This achievement is not just a win for Zimbabwe but a recognition of the great strides we are making in improving our public service delivery systems,” said Mr Matorera in an interview after receiving the awards.
“It also affirms our commitment to President Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind in our development agenda.”
The commemorations, attended by representatives from several African countries, featured high-level discussions and exhibitions that highlighted innovative practices and improvements in public service delivery across the continent.
Zimbabwe’s exhibition stand, he said, stood out for its professional presentation, storytelling and cultural authenticity. The judges were impressed by the country’s ability to clearly communicate its development story and public service reforms through a well-decorated, informative and visually captivating pavilion.
“Our team put in a lot of effort to ensure that we did not just showcase brochures or statistics, but we told the Zimbabwean story in a compelling way,” added Mr Matorera.
“From our rich cultural heritage to our developmental milestones in e-governance, agriculture, infrastructure and health, the stand reflected the real progress Zimbabwe is making.”
Ambassador Sophia Nyamudeza, Zimbabwe’s envoy to Ethiopia, who attended the commemorations and visited the Zimbabwean stand, praised the delegation’s presentation.
“It was clear that Zimbabwe’s exhibit was not just informative but inspiring,” she said. “The design, content and professionalism shown here reflect our values of excellence and innovation in public service.”
The Africa Public Service Day, which is celebrated biennially, serves as a platform for African governments to reflect on public service reforms, promote best practices and recognise excellence in the sector.
This year’s event focused on improving service delivery, enhancing transparency and promoting citizen engagement.
Mr Matorera said the accolades will further motivate the country’s public service institutions to deepen reform initiatives and improve service delivery at all levels.
“This recognition energises us,” he added. “We return home with renewed motivation to continue strengthening our systems, building capacity and delivering quality services to every Zimbabwean citizen wherever they are.”
