HR Excellence Spotlight: Zimbabwe's Best

HR Excellence Spotlight is our flagship digital publication, highlighting the top 25 HR professionals in every African country.

Celebrating leaders who are driving change

This recognition celebrates leaders who are driving change, setting standards, and inspiring the next generation of HR talent.

Each edition of HR Excellence Spotlight not only celebrates excellence but also fosters dialogue and knowledge sharing among HR leaders through the HR Excellence mindset video series, making it a must-read for those passionate about HR's evolving role in Africa. Read on to explore the leadership mindsets that sets the best HR leaders apart.

Recognizing Zimbabwe's Best:

Munyaradzi Gweshe

Head HR Operations - Econet Wireless Zimbabwe

Munyaradzi Gweshe is a seasoned human resources executive with over 15 years of experience leading strategic HR initiatives within diverse industries. He serves as the Head of HR Operations at Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, where he has been instrumental since 2018 in optimising workforce management and advancing the organisation’s HR strategies. Concurrently, Munyaradzi has held the Head of Human Resources role at Cumii International since 2016, overseeing the company’s global HR operations with a focus on talent acquisition, development, and employee engagement. 

Before his current roles, he was an HR Business Partner at Econet Wireless Zimbabwe and started his HR career as an HR Coordinator at British American Tobacco (2007-2009) in Harare, Zimbabwe. Munyaradzi's extensive experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of HR management practices, making him a key contributor to organisational success. 

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Terrence Kwaramba

Human Resources Director Alliance One Tobacco

Terrence Kwaramba is an experienced Human Resources Director with a strategic focus on aligning human capital with business objectives. Since October 2024, he has served as the HR Director at Alliance One Zimbabwe, based in Harare, where he oversees HR planning and strategic initiatives.  
 
With over 13 years in HR leadership at Alliance One, Terrence has played a pivotal role in formulating HR strategies and ensuring proactive people management to achieve organisational goals. He holds an MBA in Business Administration and Management from Nottingham Trent University, equipping him with a solid foundation in business management and strategic HR planning.

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Alice Pawarikanda

Group Human Resources Executive National Foods Limited

Alice Pawarikanda is a seasoned human resources professional with over 14 years of HR management experience in manufacturing, hospitality, and logistics. She currently holds the position of Group HR Executive at National Foods Limited Zimbabwe, where she has been pivotal since 2022 in steering HR strategies, talent management, and performance culture across the organisation. Alice’s expertise also includes extensive work as a Senior HR Business Partner and an Acting Group HR Executive, where she contributed to headcount control, CSR initiatives, and governance frameworks. 

Her prior roles include positions at Cresta Hotels and UPS, where she built her foundational HR skills in recruitment, labour relations, and change management. Alice holds a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management from Midlands State University, a Bachelor’s in Business Studies, and a Diploma in Labour Relations from IPMZ. Known for her strategic insight and dedication to organisational growth, Alice has a proven track record in enhancing employee engagement, implementing HR best practices, and driving continuous development across teams. 

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Kennedy Pomerayi Munda

HR Director Delta Corporation/Beverages

Kennedy Pomerayi is an accomplished human resources executive with over 12 years of experience at Delta Beverages Pvt Ltd, where he has been instrumental in driving HR strategies that support organisational growth and employee engagement.  
 

As an HR Executive, Kennedy has overseen talent management, performance improvement, and workforce planning, contributing significantly to the company’s success. His long-standing commitment to HR excellence has made him a key leader in fostering an inclusive, productive work environment aligned with Delta Beverages’ strategic goals. 

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Nyasha Mangwiza

Group Chief Human Resources Officer CBZ HOLDINGS LIMITED

Nyasha Mangwiza is a distinguished human resources executive with over 20 years of experience across multiple sectors, including financial services, manufacturing, and consulting. Currently, she serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer at CBZ Holdings Limited, where she has led transformative HR initiatives since 2019, driving talent development, organisational change, and strategic workforce planning.  
 
Her extensive career includes senior roles as Head of Human Resources at Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe and Head of Human Resources - Southern African Markets at British American Tobacco, where she oversaw HR operations across nine countries.  
 
Nyasha holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Roehampton and a Bachelor of Commerce from Rhodes University, which equip her with a blend of strategic, analytical, and people-centred skills.  

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Tinashe Mlambo

Head of People Fintech & Digital Platforms Cassava Technologies

Tinashe Mlambo is an accomplished human resources leader with over 15 years of experience across the telecommunications, finance, healthcare, and insurance sectors. He currently serves as the Head of People - FinTech & Digital Platforms at Cassava Technologies, where he has led HR strategies for FinTech and digital operations since January 2023. Before this role, Tinashe was the General Manager HR at EcoCash Holdings, overseeing HR functions supporting four years of organisational growth. 

His extensive background includes a five-year tenure as an HR Business Partner at Econet Wireless Zimbabwe and previous HR leadership roles at Marie Stopes International and Innscor Africa. Tinashe began his HR career as a Divisional HR Officer at Brownstone Insurance. 

He holds an MBA from the National University of Science and Technology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (Conciliation and Arbitration) from the University of Zimbabwe, and a Bachelor of Science Honours in Sociology.  

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Victor Chideme

HR Manager Pendega Holdings

Victor Chideme is an experienced Human Resources professional with over 15 years of comprehensive expertise in HR management across various sectors, including finance, retail, consulting, and specialised industries. Since 2022, he has held the role of Human Resources Manager at Padenga Holdings Plc, overseeing HR functions within the crocodile farming sector in Zimbabwe. 

Victor previously served as a Senior HR Officer at Tiger Wheel & Tyre Zimbabwe and as HR Manager at Bravo Furniture Group, managing critical HR operations and cultivating employee engagement.  
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe and a Diploma in HR Management from the Institute of People Management Zimbabwe, where he graduated with distinction and is an active associate member. 

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Takawira Maswiswi

HR Director Zimplats

Takawira Maswiswi is a seasoned Human Resources professional with extensive experience in the mining industry. He began his career as a Human Resources Officer at Zimplats Holdings Limited in January 2012, where he developed his expertise in various HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, and organisational development. 

In addition to his role at Zimplats, Takawira is a Corporate Officer/Principal at the Institute of People Management of Zimbabwe, contributing to advancing HR practices in the country. He is also a Director and Board Member at Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (Pvt) Ltd., a position he has held since February 2017, where he plays a crucial role in strategic decision-making and governance. 

Takawira's diverse experience and leadership in human resources and corporate governance underscore his commitment to cultivating effective workplace environments and driving organisational success. 

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Pfungwa Dhliwayo

Group Human Resources Executive First Mutual Holdings

Pfungwa Dhliwayo is an accomplished human resources executive with extensive experience in organisational psychology and talent development. Currently serving as the President of the Institute of People Management of Zimbabwe (IPMZ) since July 2023, he is dedicated to promoting professionalism in people management and training. 

Pfungwa also chairs the HR Committee for the Insurance Council of Zimbabwe, advocating for policies that enhance the operating environment for insurers. As the Group Human Resources Executive for First Mutual Holdings, he oversees HR strategy across Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique, focusing on implementation and evaluation. 

His previous roles include significant leadership positions at Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, where he advanced talent and organisational development strategies, and Delta Corporation Limited, where he spearheaded HR initiatives as HRD Manager and Industrial Psychologist.  

Pfungwa holds a Doctorate in Consulting (Industrial & Organisational) Psychology and an MBA in General Management from the University of Zimbabwe, complemented by various prestigious qualifications, including a Global Executive Development Programme from GIBS Business School and a Diploma in Personnel Management from the Institute of People Management. His diverse background positions him as a leader in shaping effective HR practices in Zimbabwe and beyond. 

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Mallon William Mungwiro

Human Resources Manager Simbisa Brands

Mallon William Mungwiro is an experienced human resource professional currently serving as the Human Resources Manager at Simbisa Brands Franchising in Harare, Zimbabwe, since April 2022. With a focus on critical thinking and strategic leadership, Mallon is dedicated to enhancing organisational effectiveness and employee performance. 

Before joining Simbisa, he was the Manager of People and Performance at Higherlife Foundation from November 2017 to March 2022, where he applied his expertise in Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) and performance management. Mallon's career began at Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, where he spent over a decade as a Human Resources Business Partner, playing a significant role in shaping HR strategies and initiatives. 

Mallon holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management from Midlands State University, where he graduated with honours and received the Book Prize for Best Student in his class. His educational foundation and extensive professional experience position him as a leader in the human resources field in Zimbabwe. 

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Dr. Israel Murefu

Divisional Director Human Resources FBC Holdings Limited

Dr. Israel Murefu is a distinguished leader and seasoned professional in human resource management and corporate governance, currently serving as the Divisional Director of Group Human Resources at FBC Holdings Limited since March 2000. With over 24 years of experience, he has excelled in strategic human capital management, overseeing critical functions such as resourcing, performance management, employee engagement, and organisational development. 

In addition to his role at FBC, Dr. Murefu has been a Non-Executive Director at Slice Distributors Limited since December 2017 and served as the Immediate Past Non-Executive Chairman of the Construction Industry Pension Fund from January 2018 to April 2022. His extensive background includes prior positions as Human Resources Manager at Stanbic Bank and Employee Relations Manager at Standard Chartered Bank. 

Dr. Murefu holds a Bachelor of Law Honours Degree from the University of Zimbabwe and a Master of Business Administration, with a focus on Strategic Management and Leadership. He completed his Doctorate in Philosophy, majoring in Leadership and Corporate Governance, at Atlantic International University. 

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Tatenda Geoffrey Guzuzu

Human Capital Manager Colcom Foods

Tatenda Geoffrey Guzuzu is an accomplished Human Capital Manager currently leading human resources initiatives at Colcom Foods since June 2024. With a robust background in human resource management, he has amassed over seven years of diverse experience across various industries, including logistics, food production, and consultancy. 

Before joining Colcom Foods, Tatenda held the position of Human Resources Manager at Cailogistics, where he developed and implemented effective HR strategies aligned with business objectives. His previous roles include Human Resources Business Partner at Cairns Foods Limited and Senior Human Resources Officer at Concrete Masters, where he focused on enhancing employee relations, recruitment, and organisational performance. 

Tatenda holds a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Sociology from the University of Zimbabwe and a Diploma in Human Resources Management from the Institute of People Management of Zimbabwe. Tatenda is committed to fostering a positive work environment and leveraging human capital to drive organisational success. 

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Patience Tsedemu

Human Capital Manager Masimba Holdings Limited

Patience Tsedemu is an accomplished Human Capital Manager at Masimba Holdings Limited, where she has been instrumental in leading human resources initiatives since January 2021. With nearly four years of experience in the field, Patience has developed a strong expertise in various aspects of human resource management, including talent acquisition, employee relations, and organisational development. 

In her role, she focuses on aligning HR strategies with business objectives to enhance workforce effectiveness and drive performance. Patience is dedicated to fostering a positive work environment and ensuring compliance with HR policies and procedures, contributing to the overall success of Masimba Holdings. 

Her passion for human capital development and her commitment to best practices in HR make her a valuable asset to her organisation and the broader business community in Zimbabwe. 

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Amanda Chiedza Mukungunugwa

Head of Human Capital NMBZ Holdings

Amanda Chiedza Mukungunugwa is a seasoned HR professional currently serving as the Head of Human Capital at NMB Bank Limited Zimbabwe since April 2023. With over three years of experience in the banking sector, she previously held the role of Talent & Organisational Development Business Partner at the same institution, where she focused on enhancing talent management and organisational development strategies. 

Amanda holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Midlands State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a specialisation in Industrial and Organisational Psychology from the Women University in Africa. Her educational background, coupled with her practical experience, equips her with a strong foundation in understanding workforce dynamics and implementing effective HR practices. 

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Johnson Dhemba

Chief People and Culture Officer ZB Financial Holdings

Johnson Dhemba is the Chief People and Culture Officer at ZB Financial Holdings, where he leads initiatives to enhance organisational culture and employee engagement. With extensive experience in human resources, Johnson is dedicated to aligning people strategies with business goals to drive success. 

His leadership in promoting a positive workplace environment and commitment to talent development positions him as a key player in the financial services sector.  
 
Johnson's strategic vision and expertise in people management contribute significantly to the overall growth and effectiveness of ZB Financial Holdings. 

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Kenneth Mukada

Human Resources Executive Star Africa Corporation

Kenneth Mukada is a seasoned Human Resources Executive with over 10 years of progressive experience across various industries, including agriculture, mining, and telecommunications. Known for his passion for collaboration, Kenneth excels in partnering with line management and stakeholders to develop HR solutions aligned with business strategy.  
Before his current role, he served as an HR Business Partner at Econet Wireless, where he contributed to key HR initiatives. Kenneth holds a Degree in Human Resources Management, a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (Conciliation and Arbitration), and an IPMZ Diploma in Human Resources Management. He is also a Chartered OD Practitioner and a Certified Talent Practitioner through ITMA Global, underscoring his commitment to professional excellence in the HR field. 

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Dr. Philimon Chitagu

Human Resources and Administration Director Schweppes Zimbabwe

Dr. Philimon Chitagu is an accomplished Human Resources and Administration Director at Schweppes Zimbabwe Limited, where he has been instrumental in shaping HR strategy for over 15 years. With nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Chitagu has held various senior HR roles, including General Administration and HR Manager at Caps Holdings. His expertise spans performance management, talent acquisition, and employee engagement, significantly contributing to the company's recognition as a top employer in Africa. 

Dr. Chitagu holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership Transformation and Development from The Da Vinci Institute and has earned multiple advanced degrees, including a Doctor of Business Administration (Honors) in Human Resources Management. He is also an accomplished executive coach, serving as a Marshall Goldsmith Certified Executive Coach. 

His accolades include the Africa HR Leadership Award in 2014, the 100 Most Influential Global HR Professional Award in 2015, and being named Africa HR Professional of the Year in 2017. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, he is an active speaker at regional and international HR forums. He serves on various advisory councils and boards, including the Tripartite Labour Law Advisory Council in Zimbabwe and the International Youth Foundation. Dr. Chitagu is committed to advancing HR practices and leadership development in Africa and beyond. 

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Prince Lupenga

Human Resource Manager RioZim LTD

Prince Lupenga is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over 15 years of experience in various HR roles across the mining and security sectors. He is the Human Resources Manager at RioZim Ltd, having previously held similar positions at Volsec Security and the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company. 

Prince's career began as a Payroll Administrator at Trojan Nickel Mine, advancing through various HR positions, including Human Resources Officer and Business Partner. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management from Midlands State University and a Master of Commerce in Strategic Management from Great Zimbabwe University. Additionally, he has a Higher National Diploma in Payroll Management and a Certificate in Labour Law Conciliation and Arbitration. 

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Fortune Nyoni

Human Resources Manager Hwange Colliery Company

Fortune Nyoni is an accomplished Human Resources professional with over 17 years of experience in the field. He currently serves as the Human Resources Manager at Hwange Colliery Company Limited. His career at Hwange began as a Human Resources Officer in 2007, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping HR policies and practices. 

Fortune's previous experience includes serving as a Provincial Community Service Officer with the Ministry of Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe, an Executive Diploma in Business Leadership from the Zimbabwe Institute of Management, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Management from the University of Zimbabwe. 

In addition, he has obtained a Certificate in Labour Law, Conciliation, and Arbitration from the Institute of People Management. 

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Betty Mudarikwa

Human Resources Business Partner First Mutual Life

Betty Mudarikwa is an accomplished HR Business Partner with nearly 17 years of experience at First Mutual Holdings Limited in Harare, Zimbabwe. Currently, she supports the company's HR strategy across various subsidiaries, including Afre Corporation, Tristar Insurance, Pearl Properties, and FMRE Life & Health.  
 
With deep expertise in HR services, policy development, and employee relations, Betty previously held roles as Group Human Resources Officer and HR Administrator, focusing on payroll, employee grievances, and conditions of service. She holds a Master’s in Development Studies from the National University of Science and Technology (ZW) and a Bachelor of Science Honors in Sociology and Gender Studies from Women’s University in Africa, where her research explored societal perceptions of women in leadership. 

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Nyasha Mavave

Human Resources and Administration Manager Seed Co Limited

Nyasha Mavave is an experienced Human Resources Manager who has been with Seed Co Limited since January 2012.

With over a decade of dedicated service, and has developed deep
expertise in human resources management, contributing significantly to organisational development and talent management within the company. Nyasha’s extensive tenure at Seed Co highlights his commitment to building a productive and supportive work environment.
 

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Edwin Nharirire

Group Services Executive

Edwin Nharirire has over 20 years of experience encompassing HR, ICT, legal, and compliance. Since 2013, Edwin has led the development and execution of strategic HR initiatives, change management, and innovation for TSL, having recently advanced to oversee comprehensive group services.

His previous roles include directing HR for World Vision and managing key HR operations and psychological assessments for Delta Beverages.
 

Edwin holds a Ph.D. in Consulting Psychology from the University of South Africa, an MBA from the University of Zimbabwe, and advanced certifications from Oxford’s Saïd Business School and GIBS Business School 

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Farai Sithole

Company Secretary and Head of HR Nedbank

Farai Sithole is an experienced executive in corporate governance and human resources with over 15 years of service at Nedbank Zimbabwe Limited.

Currently the Company Secretary and Head of Human Resources, he has been instrumental in steering company compliance, HR functions, and leadership initiatives since 2020.
 
 
Previously, he served as the Company Secretary and Projects Executive at MBCA Bank Limited for over 11 years.  
 
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Rhodes University and has completed the Senior Management Programme at GIBS Business School, enriching his strategic leadership and corporate governance expertise. 

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Takura Pwiti

Head Human Resources First Capital Bank

Takura Pwiti is a human resources professional with over 15 years of experience, currently leading as the Head of Human Resources at First Capital Bank Zimbabwe since January 2024. 

Before this, he served as the People & Purpose Lead at Deloitte Zimbabwe and held key roles, including Human Capital & Talent Management Executive at the National Social Security Authority and HR Executive at Cairns Foods Limited. His career also spans significant tenures with Unilever Zimbabwe and SOS Children’s Villages Zimbabwe. Takura holds a BSc. Honours in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe. 

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Audrey Mlambo

Head Human Capital Stanbic Bank

Audrey Mlambo is the Regional Head of People & Culture for South and Central Africa at Standard Bank, a position she has held since June 2022.

Before this role, she was the Head of People & Culture at Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe from July 2019 to May 2022. 
 

Audrey's extensive experience in human resources includes over seven years at Standard Chartered Bank, where she held various leadership positions, including Head of Human Resources for Zimbabwe and Acting Head of Human Resources for South Africa and Southern Africa. She began her career as an Assistant Regional HR Manager in Dubai.  

Audrey holds an MBA from Nottingham Trent University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management from IPMZ, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe. Additionally, she is pursuing a research doctorate in corporate governance at Nottingham Trent University. 

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