Our Team
The AEDS’ Board is made up of nine (9) polished professionals whose roles are to provide strategic guidance and oversight with a view to foster good governance and sustainable growth. The Board is made up of Dr Farai Matanhire (Chairman), Ms Latifa Kassim (Vice Chairperson), Dr Wonder Muchabaiwa, Mrs Abigail Nyahangare, Dr Nelson Chanza, Professor Laurine Chikoko, Professor Gift Mugano (Executive Director), Dr Tonderai Kapesa and Ms Rumbidzai Mashayahanya.
Dr Farai Matanhire is an accomplished international finance and administration executive with over 25 years of professional working experience in manufacturing, mining, FMCG, banking, technology, and media Industries. A corporate strategist and organisational performance advocate who develops and implements strategic and operational business policies and procedures. His wealth of experience was gained from working in Tobacco, Cement, FMCG and Media & Entertainment industries for reputable Stock Exchange-Listed companies that include BAT, Saralee H&BC, Lafarge, Dangote and Zimpapers. Over the years, he occupied various roles that had responsibilities in Finance and Accounting, Marketing, Performance Management, Legal, Administration, Supply Chain and Information Technology. He has been exposed enough to better understand the need for global competitiveness in a highly volatile global economy to ensure sustainable organisational performance. Over the years, he has been instrumental in some business re-engineering processes, total quality management systems and application of the Balanced Scorecard performance management tool to drive organisational performance. Therefore, the opportunity for competitiveness to maintain market dominance is my focus area as an executive to ensure the future growth of the organisation. Dr Matanhire hold Doctor of Philosophy degree in Corporate Strategy from Nelson Mandela University and other several qualifications which inter alia include MBA, B.Com, IoDSA, CA(ZA), FCMA, FIAC and ACTA.
Ms. Latifa Kassim is a Banking executive with over twenty years of experience. She is currently the Executive Head of Treasury, Marketing, and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank Zimbabwe Ltd. She holds a BSc. Honours in Economics, a Master of Science in Economics, and a Masters in Business Administration (Finance) from the University of Zimbabwe. Latifa is also a holder of a Nedbank-Gibbs (University of Pretoria) Leadership Development Certificate and holds other Banking, Treasury-specific, and Leadership certifications. Latifa is the immediate past Chairperson of the Treasurers Forum under the Bankers Association and also a member of the CZI Macroeconomic Committee. She actively contributes to key policy issues that affect the country, providing input in Monetary and Fiscal Policy formulation. She is Christian, a proud wife, and a mother. Latifa’s dedication to her profession and her community is evident in her active involvement in various fora and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her contributions to the banking sector and her efforts to support and uplift vulnerable groups make her a respected and influential figure in her field.
Professor Gift Mugano (PhD) is a Professor of Economics and author with over 20 years of experience working on public policy, international finance, innovative finance, investment climate reforms, investment prospectus, regional integration, industrialisation master plans, special economic zones, value chain & trade analysis and academic work. He has consulted for the Governments of Eswatini, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe; over 60 private sector companies and international organisations including the World Bank; United Nations; UKAID, BRICS; FAO; ILO; USAID; GIZ; National Opinion Research Centre at the University of Chicago (USA); GFA Consulting Group (Germany); Integration Consulting Group (Germany); COMESA; British Council; Adam Smith International (UK); IMC Worldwide LTD (UK); Cardno Emerging Markets (Belgium); KPMG (UK); Palladium Group (UK); Ecorys (UK); Syngenta (Switzerland); National Research Fund (SA); Trade Policy Training Centre in Africa (Tanzania); Laws Africa (SA); and Transparency International Zimbabwe. He has published over 60 articles & book chapters with international peer reviewed journals and six (6) books with renowned international publishers [i.e., Taylor & Francis, Springer Nature and AOSIS]. Professor Mugano has supervised seven (7) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees to successful completion and examined 14 PhDs and several postgraduate theses. Over the years, he represented his country at various forums on trade negotiations, investment missions and conferences abroad (Heads of State and Government Summits, Council of Ministers, Senior Officials of Trade and Technical Committees) at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels in Belgium, Switzerland, South Africa, Eswatini, Zambia, Botswana, China, South Korea, India, Tanzania, Thailand and Cameroon. Over the years, he acted as an external examiner for the University of Cape Town, University of Namibia, University of Western Cape, University of South Africa, North-West University, Durban University of Technology, Nelson Mandela University, University of Zimbabwe and National University of Science and Technology.
Tonderai Kapesa (PhD) is a seasoned accounting academic and financial sector specialist with over 16 years of diverse experience spanning higher education, credit analysis, and banking operations. Dr Kapesa hold a PhD in Accounting (Nelson Mandela University), Master of Commerce in Accounting (Midlands State University) and BCom Accounting (Chinhoyi University of Technology). In his PhD thesis, he developed a framework for public infrastructure financing, he possesses deep technical expertise in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), financial reporting, management accounting, treasury management, and corporate governance. Currently, serving as a Lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, he bridges the gap between theoretical accounting frameworks and practical financial applications, drawing from his significant industry tenure as a Supervisor and Treasury Operations clerk in Zimbabwe. Beyond his core teaching and research portfolio, Dr. Kapesa has assumed significant leadership roles, having served as the Chairperson of the Department of Accounting and Finance and Acting Dean at the Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University. His professional influence extends across the SADC region, where he actively serves as a Peer Reviewer and Chair of accreditation panels for the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) in Namibia. He is a key contributor to the standardisation of financial education, acting as an External Examiner for KwaZulu Natal University, the Institute of Bankers Zimbabwe (IOBZ), the Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Zimbabwe) and Gwanda State University, while also engaging in high-level capacity building for institutions such as the Parliament of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Association of Microfinance Institutions.
Rumbidzai Mashayahanya is an award-winning journalist, strategic communications expert, governance practitioner and peacebuilding advocate with more than fifteen (15) years of experience spanning print, broadcast, electronic and digital media. She has worked with some of Zimbabwe’s leading media institutions including the Zimbabwe Newspapers Group (Zimpapers), various private media houses and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation. She has also worked within the civil society sector as a Communications Specialist, contributing to strategic communication programming, policy communication and development-focused public engagement. Rumbidzai is a holder of a Bachelor of Social Science Honours Degree in Media and Society Studies from Midlands State University, a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Governance from Africa University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation from Makerere University (Uganda). She is a certified Data Journalist from Rhodes University (RSA), a certified Leadership Trainer from the Julius Nyerere School of Leadership (Uganda), an IEP Ambassador with the Institute of Economics and Peace (Australia) and a certified Mediator with Mediators Beyond Borders. These qualifications reinforce her expertise across governance, leadership, communication strategy, peacebuilding and conflict mediation. She has spoken on various international and regional platforms on public relations ethics, greenwashing and corporate social responsibility, leadership communication and media professionalism. Rumbidzai has also served on several institutional boards as a media specialist, demonstrating strong governance capability and advisory expertise. Passionate about media development and professional standards, she continues to champion the welfare and rights of journalists while mentoring young and emerging practitioners in journalism and communications. Bringing a unique blend of communication intelligence, governance insight, leadership grounding and peacebuilding experience, Rumbidzai strengthens the AEDS Board’s capacity to advance impactful development communication, policy engagement and evidence-driven socio-economic transformation across Africa.
Nelson Chanza (PhD) holds a PhD in Environmental Geography, MSc in Environmental Policy and Planning, and BSc Honours in Biological Sciences. He once served as Director (Non-Executive) in the Environment Management Board, responsible for giving policy directions to the operations of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and to advise the Minister responsible for the environment in Zimbabwe. With country experience in Zimbabwe and South Africa, Nelson has greatly contributed towards advancing the knowledge of climate change, environmental and disaster mainstreaming in development programmes. He draws expertise from over 15 years of research and training in these fields, including poverty alleviation focused projects. He has knowledge and experience in participatory mapping and vulnerability assessment for managing adaptation barriers associated with environmental stress and climate change in Africa. He has participated in international and national development programmes in the fields of poverty alleviation, climate change adaptation, environment management and disaster management, including: 1) Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Managing Climate Change in Southern Africa, a project sponsored by the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA), Wageningen, The Netherlands; 2) Development of Zimbabwe National Climate Policy, responsible for cross-cutting issues, a project supported by COMESA/UNICEF/UNDP; 3) Development of the Zimbabwe Youth Development Report, for the Zimbabwe Youth Council and co-sponsored by the African Capacity Building Foundation & UNFPA; 4) capacity building for CCARDESA staff on Monitoring and Evaluation of Agricultural Research and Development Projects as a co-consultant in Johannesburg, South Africa, targeting participants from Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique; 5) Capacity building for disaster management planning and risk reduction for UNICEF-Nigeria and government officials under the aegis of UNICEF; and many other development projects. Given the climate and environmental sensitivity of livelihoods targeted in this programme, Nelson will be responsible for environment, climate change and disaster mainstreaming.
Mrs Abigail Nyahangare is an accountant by profession with over 20 years of experience in financial accounting and overall management as head of finance. She is Grants and Finance Director at AEDS. She worked as a Bursar/Finance Director at Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU). She has worked extensively for 6 years in Forward in Faith Church with its various entities around the globe and has successfully pioneered in setting up financial systems in over 20 nations amongst them, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and other nations. She was the team leader in setting up the accounting system (SAP) at the FIF Head office in Zimbabwe. She has managed various church projects, amongst them is a project that was worth more than US$10 million that has seen one of the remarkable University’s in Zimbabwe (ZEGU) being constructed with good infrastructure and a full backup of solar system. She manages and approves over 30 bank accounts of the Forward in Faith church in Zimbabwe. She acquired 10 years of experience at PG Industries in financial accounting reporting and was part of the team leaders in setting up the accounting system (Navision). Abigail hold a B Compt in Financial Accounting (University of South Africa, UNISA) and currently studying Master of Business Administration majoring in Finance (Midlands State University, Zimbabwe). She successfully managed COVID-19 related grants amounting to US$300,000 and US$24,000 with Nottingham University (UK) and National Research Fund (NRF), respectively.
Dr. Muchabaiwa is a Sociologist and an educationist who has worked with communities on different livelihood projects. Currently, he is a lecturer in the Department of Policy Studies and Leadership with Midlands State University. He has published on the circumstances of women in economic development issues in African societies. Dr. Muchabaiwa has also published articles on Education and development with particular focus on the informal sector, the curriculum, Mentorship in Education and gender issues in education. He is a distinguished academic and scholar with vast experience in Teacher Development and Gender Studies. To date Dr. Muchabaiwa has published more than 15 articles in refereed journals. In AEDS, Dr. Muchabaiwa brings in an educational dimension to development considering the symbiotic relationship between education and development. He also enriches the team composition by bringing a sociological background amenable with development issues. Dr. Muchabaiwa has participated in the Market survey on Food Provisions in Masvingo, Manicaland and Matebeleland provinces in Zimbabwe sponsored by USAID. He holds a PhD in Sociology, MSc Sociology and Social Anthropology, MEd, Sociology; Ed and DipEd.
Professor Laurine Chikoko (PhD) is distinguished scholar, with an established research and publication record in economics with over thirty articles in peer reviewed journals. Professor Chikoko has over 20 years of experience in administration of research grants, consultancy work and policy advisory. Currently, she is the Executive Dean of Research and Postgraduate Studies at Midlands State University, Zimbabwe and her key responsibilities include managing the entire research portfolio at the institution; ensuring ethical conduct in research; intellectual property and patent applications; research grants administration and training facilitation. Professor Chikoko has done consultancy work for international organizations such as Hand in Hand Zimbabwe and Sweden, Association of Commonwealth Universities and the Government of Canada (RoadMAPP). She has researched and produced technical and policy documents for these organizations. Over the years, Professor Chikoko acquired research skills that include: quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research methodology; qualitative data analysis that uses computer-based software for analyzing qualitative data; research instrument construction; field-based data collection; report writing; presentation; project management and program evaluation. In the context of academia, government and industry collaborations, Professor Chikoko continues to make prolific and invaluable contributions to national policy formulation and reforms. She has distinguished herself academically by training and examining PhD scholars regionally and internationally. Outside the academic sphere, Professor Chikoko is a Board Member of the CEO Africa Round Table and participates in programs on economic policy issues run by international bodies such as Wilton Park (an executive agency of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office providing a global forum for strategic discussions) and she has been appointed recently as the Advisory Board Chair for Transforming Rural Agro-enterprises and Livelihoods Organisation (TRALO).
Professor Gift Mugano (PhD) is a Professor of Economics and author with over 20 years of experience working on public policy, international finance, innovative finance, investment climate reforms, investment prospectus, regional integration, industrialisation master plans, special economic zones, value chain & trade analysis and academic work. He has consulted for the Governments of Eswatini, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe; over 60 private sector companies and international organisations including the World Bank; United Nations; UKAID, BRICS; FAO; ILO; USAID; GIZ; National Opinion Research Centre at the University of Chicago (USA); GFA Consulting Group (Germany); Integration Consulting Group (Germany); COMESA; British Council; Adam Smith International (UK); IMC Worldwide LTD (UK); Cardno Emerging Markets (Belgium); KPMG (UK); Palladium Group (UK); Ecorys (UK); Syngenta (Switzerland); National Research Fund (SA); Trade Policy Training Centre in Africa (Tanzania); Laws Africa (SA); and Transparency International Zimbabwe. He has published over 60 articles & book chapters with international peer reviewed journals and six (6) books with renowned international publishers [i.e., Taylor & Francis, Springer Nature and AOSIS]. Professor Mugano has supervised seven (7) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees to successful completion and examined 14 PhDs and several postgraduate theses. Over the years, he represented his country at various forums on trade negotiations, investment missions and conferences abroad (Heads of State and Government Summits, Council of Ministers, Senior Officials of Trade and Technical Committees) at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels in Belgium, Switzerland, South Africa, Eswatini, Zambia, Botswana, China, South Korea, India, Tanzania, Thailand and Cameroon. Over the years, he acted as an external examiner for the University of Cape Town, University of Namibia, University of Western Cape, University of South Africa, North-West University, Durban University of Technology, Nelson Mandela University, University of Zimbabwe and National University of Science and Technology.
Nelson Chanza (PhD) holds a PhD in Environmental Geography, MSc in Environmental Policy and Planning, and BSc Honours in Biological Sciences. He once served as Director (Non-Executive) in the Environment Management Board, responsible for giving policy directions to the operations of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and to advise the Minister responsible for the environment in Zimbabwe. With country experience in Zimbabwe and South Africa, Nelson has greatly contributed towards advancing the knowledge of climate change, environmental and disaster mainstreaming in development programmes. He draws expertise from over 15 years of research and training in these fields, including poverty alleviation focused projects. He has knowledge and experience in participatory mapping and vulnerability assessment for managing adaptation barriers associated with environmental stress and climate change in Africa. He has participated in international and national development programmes in the fields of poverty alleviation, climate change adaptation, environment management and disaster management, including: 1) Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Managing Climate Change in Southern Africa, a project sponsored by the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA), Wageningen, The Netherlands; 2) Development of Zimbabwe National Climate Policy, responsible for cross-cutting issues, a project supported by COMESA/UNICEF/UNDP; 3) Development of the Zimbabwe Youth Development Report, for the Zimbabwe Youth Council and co-sponsored by the African Capacity Building Foundation & UNFPA; 4) capacity building for CCARDESA staff on Monitoring and Evaluation of Agricultural Research and Development Projects as a co-consultant in Johannesburg, South Africa, targeting participants from Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique; 5) Capacity building for disaster management planning and risk reduction for UNICEF-Nigeria and government officials under the aegis of UNICEF; and many other development projects. Given the climate and environmental sensitivity of livelihoods targeted in this programme, Nelson will be responsible for environment, climate change and disaster mainstreaming.
A seasoned sociologist, human capital management specialist, and scholar-practitioner with over 20 years of experience in university administration, teaching, research, and professional capacity building. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology from the University of the Free State, MSc in Strategic Human Resource Management, MSc in Population Studies, BSc (Hons.) in Psychology, and a Diploma in Industrial Relations. She also holds an executive certificate in project monitoring and evaluation and an executive certificate in practical labor law, arbitration, and conciliation, reinforcing her expertise in applied governance and policy. Currently, she is working as a Lecturer at Bindura University of Science Education and a part-time lecturer at Reformed Church University (RCU) and the Zimbabwe National Defence University (ZNDU). Prior to this, she worked at the University of Zimbabwe for 23 years both as an academic and senior administrator. She has supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate research projects. Her research interests include human capital development, HR analytics, performance management, gender and women’s empowerment, sexual and reproductive health rights, leadership ethics, and inclusive development. Over the years, she worked as a co-consultant on several market surveys, customer satisfaction surveys and evaluations on behalf of several organisations which inter alia include Public Service Commission (PSC), Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ), and the Post Office Savings Bank (POSB), ZIMTRADE, Plan International Zimbabwe and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Small and Medium Enterprise Development and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs). Her research portfolio combines quantitative and qualitative methods, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement, with a strong focus on human capital development, governance, gender equity, and social inclusion issues. She has published and presented her work at regional and international conferences in the past. She remains committed to evidence-based policies, ethical leadership, and socially responsive scholarship.
Cathrine is an experienced Human Resources and Development practitioner with over 18 years of progressive experience in human capital development, institutional strengthening, and applied organizational research across public sector, private sector, higher education, and development-oriented institutions. Her work is grounded in evidence-based practice and focuses on strengthening organizational performance, leadership capacity, and workforce productivity in emerging and transitional economies. She has experience supporting development programmes and research-informed interventions, including community-based project assessments, training needs assessments, organizational diagnostics, programme reviews, and results-based management initiatives. Her exposure includes participation in community needs assessments, stakeholder consultations, qualitative data collection, and programme evaluation processes, particularly within local government and development-focused institutional settings. Cathrine has contributed to monitoring and evaluation activities and analytical reporting to support policy formulation, strategic planning, and programme improvement. Cathrine holds a Master of Business Administration, an MSc in Development Studies, and a Bachelor of Business Administration, complemented by executive training in Monitoring and Evaluation, Coaching and Mentoring, and People Management. She is currently a PhD candidate in Business Administration at the Durban University of Technology, South Africa, with research interests in human capital development, organizational effectiveness, and sustainable institutional performance.
Ruvimbo Esther Chakanetsa is currently studying towards a Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences (Marketing) at the Durban University of Technology. Her doctoral research focuses on how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies use digital marketing strategies to build export marketing capabilities and overcome barriers to entry into developed-country markets. She holds a Master of Science in Marketing from Heriot-Watt University (Scotland) and a Bachelor of Business from Edith Cowan University (Australia). She is a management professional and marketing academic with over 15 years of experience in strategic administration, operations management, and higher education teaching. Her technical expertise spans strategic planning, business-to-business marketing, consumer behaviour, export marketing strategy, and operational management. Ruvimbo has worked across both corporate and academic environments. She most recently served as Managing Director at TicketsBox, where she was responsible for organisational operations, budget management, and the implementation of technology-driven systems to enhance efficiency. Previously, she held senior operational roles as Head of Operations at Doddle Learn and Senior Administration Officer at Mbada Diamonds, where she developed operational policies, prepared financial budgets, and managed complex stakeholder engagements. In academia, she has lectured in Strategic Management, Change Management, and Customer Relationship Management at Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University and the TelOne Centre for Learning. Her academic and professional work is centred on translating management theory into practical, context-sensitive solutions for organisations operating in emerging and resource-constrained markets.
Pretty is a proactive and dedicated Economist and committed Monitoring and Evaluation specialist with experience in facilitating both local and foreign investment, implementing, monitoring investment processes and development programs that qualify to enhance industrial development and livelihood programs. She has more than 10 years’ experience on economic assessments. She has vast experience in development initiatives, particularly in the areas of trade, economic integration, and industrial development in emerging markets, and frontier economies. She has carried out evaluation projects that include Multi sectorial needs assessment to establish the needs of the community, Mid-term review, Impact Assessment and End-line evaluation with non-profit making organization. Over the years, she has provided policy recommendations to promote industrial development, designed and implemented M&E systems to monitor the effectiveness of government programs. Pretty has an advanced command of Excel and data packages like STATA, SPSS, E-VIEWS, NVivo and other research tools like Kobo Collect, ODK, etc. She holds Master of Science in Economics, Bachelor of Science in Economics and Bachelor of Science in Monitoring and Evaluation. She is a finalist of a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Public Management at the Durban University of Technology.
Dr Richard Kamidza, an Independent International Development Consultant, holds a BSc (Honours) Economics (University of Zimbabwe), MA in Policy Studies (Southern African Regional Institute for Policy Studies, an Associate of the Universities of Fort Hare and Zimbabwe), and PhD in Development Studies (University of KwaZulu Natal). He has more than 27 cumulative years of working experience in the Eastern and Southern Africa’s regional integration processes (COMESA, EAC, SACU and SADC), focusing mainly on bilateral, regional and multilateral trade negotiations, and the implementation of trade agreements thereof; trade issues and trends, and trade and regional integration analysis; institutional capacity development and advocacy; and national and regional policy making processes. In particular, Dr Kamidza has since 2004 been working on the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) negotiations between the EU, and the ESA and SADC groups, and subsequent implementation of the new bilateral trade regime, and regional and multilateral trade agreements. In this respect, firstly, he coordinated and facilitaed dialogue sessions on ESA civil society during the EPA negotiations with the EU. Secondly, as a seconded Commonwealth Secretariat’s Regional Trade Policy / Trade Advisor to the SADC Secretariat, he was directly involved in the EPA negotiations between the EU and SADC-EPA countries. Thirdly, he was directly involved in trade negotiations and building the technical negotiation capacities of government officials and non-state-actors (NSAs) representatives; and convening and/or facilitating EPA policy dialogue sessions on trade and industrial policy formulation; trade facilitation including informal cross-borders and trade-related issues. Fourthly, his research interest on bilateral/regional trade and integration culminated in several authored EPA oriented publications, namely, advisory and policy briefs, policy dialogue sessions’ papers, book chapters and a book; socio-economic situational analysis reports; and related capacity building with state officials and NSAs’ trade representatives and activists. Fifthly, he worked closely with some COMESA, EAC, SACU and SADC governments’ Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) officials, Trade and Development Committee Members of Parliament, and NSAs’ representatives. Lastly, as explained below, he has been coordinating EPA trade negotiations programmes; managing Development Partners (DPs)’ funded National and regional technical assistance (TA) programmes/ projects; building/developing institutional technical capacity and skills on trade and industrial policy formulation and export competitiveness; evaluating DPs’ funded programmes and projects; and identifying and formulating trade agreement-oriented technical assistance projects.
A research analyst with more than 5 years of experience in data collection, data entry, data analysis, report writing, and academic research, working with different organizations including Africa Economic Development Strategies (AEDS), Bureau of Economic and Social Research (BESR), ARUP and Ruzivo Trust. Currently, studying under Collaborative Masters in Agricultural and Applied Economics (CMMAE) with Shared Facility for Specialization and Electives (SFSE) co-hosted with the University of Pretoria, South Africa. Primrose is a holder of Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Agriculture and Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of Zimbabwe. She is studying towards a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Public Management with Durban University of Technology. She has done an economic profiling survey for ZimTrade, conducted econometric analysis for the Food and Nutrition Council (FNC). She carried out a survey to unpack the state of agriculture sector in Zimbabwe on behalf of Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) and Financial Gazette. She also conducted a market analysis and a food security analysis in Manicaland, Masvingo and Matebeleland North provinces under National Opinion Research Center, University of Chicago and USAID, Washington DC, USA. In addition, she also did data analysis and report writing with International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) in conjunction with Faculty of Agriculture at University of Zimbabwe. She also worked as an Intern-Trainee in cattle and poultry management with deRust Farm Somabhula. Throughout the years of experience, she has gained several technical skills including Economic modelling, use of statistical tools like CSPRO, STATA, SPSS and excel.
Tonderai Kapesa (PhD) is a seasoned accounting academic and financial sector specialist with over 16 years of diverse experience spanning higher education, credit analysis, and banking operations. Dr Kapesa hold a PhD in Accounting (Nelson Mandela University), Master of Commerce in Accounting (Midlands State University) and BCom Accounting (Chinhoyi University of Technology). In his PhD thesis, he developed a framework for public infrastructure financing, he possesses deep technical expertise in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), financial reporting, management accounting, treasury management, and corporate governance. Currently, serving as a Lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, he bridges the gap between theoretical accounting frameworks and practical financial applications, drawing from his significant industry tenure as a Supervisor and Treasury Operations clerk in Zimbabwe. Beyond his core teaching and research portfolio, Dr. Kapesa has assumed significant leadership roles, having served as the Chairperson of the Department of Accounting and Finance and Acting Dean at the Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University. His professional influence extends across the SADC region, where he actively serves as a Peer Reviewer and Chair of accreditation panels for the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) in Namibia. He is a key contributor to the standardisation of financial education, acting as an External Examiner for KwaZulu Natal University, the Institute of Bankers Zimbabwe (IOBZ), the Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Zimbabwe) and Gwanda State University, while also engaging in high-level capacity building for institutions such as the Parliament of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Association of Microfinance Institutions.
Rumbidzai Mashayahanya is an award-winning journalist, strategic communications expert, governance practitioner and peacebuilding advocate with more than fifteen (15) years of experience spanning print, broadcast, electronic and digital media. She has worked with some of Zimbabwe’s leading media institutions including the Zimbabwe Newspapers Group (Zimpapers), various private media houses and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation. She has also worked within the civil society sector as a Communications Specialist, contributing to strategic communication programming, policy communication and development-focused public engagement. Rumbidzai is a holder of a Bachelor of Social Science Honours Degree in Media and Society Studies from Midlands State University, a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Governance from Africa University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation from Makerere University (Uganda). She is a certified Data Journalist from Rhodes University (RSA), a certified Leadership Trainer from the Julius Nyerere School of Leadership (Uganda), an IEP Ambassador with the Institute of Economics and Peace (Australia) and a certified Mediator with Mediators Beyond Borders. These qualifications reinforce her expertise across governance, leadership, communication strategy, peacebuilding and conflict mediation. She has spoken on various international and regional platforms on public relations ethics, greenwashing and corporate social responsibility, leadership communication and media professionalism. Rumbidzai has also served on several institutional boards as a media specialist, demonstrating strong governance capability and advisory expertise. Passionate about media development and professional standards, she continues to champion the welfare and rights of journalists while mentoring young and emerging practitioners in journalism and communications. Bringing a unique blend of communication intelligence, governance insight, leadership grounding and peacebuilding experience, Rumbidzai strengthens the AEDS Board’s capacity to advance impactful development communication, policy engagement and evidence-driven socio-economic transformation across Africa.
Ruvimbo Eugenia Mushando is an economist and quantitative researcher with expertise in resource economics, sustainable development, and the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus. She is currently pursuing an MSc in Economics at the University of Zimbabwe and holds BSc (Hons) in Economics from the University of Zimbabwe. Through her participation in the prestigious WAGON2AFRICA Transnational Education (TNE) mobility exchange program in Italy, she conducted advanced research on integrated resource management and climate-resilient policy solutions. With three years of professional experience in data management and analytics at Zimbabwe Leaf Tobacco, Ruvimbo excels at bridging econometric theory with large-scale, real-world datasets. Her work focuses on delivering rigorous, evidence-based insights to address complex interdisciplinary challenges in sustainable development. Her areas of expertise inter alia include econometric modeling and statistical inference; WEF Nexus analysis and sustainable resource policy; advanced proficiency in Stata, R, EViews, SPSS, and Excel; and full data lifecycle management (capture, cleaning, analysis, visualization). Ruvimbo’s passion is to produce high-impact research that informs policy and supports evidence-driven decision-making in Africa.
Nyasha is a results-driven strategist and business development expert with over five years of proven experience in the advertising and marketing industry. She also currently serves as a Business Development Officer at African Economic Development Strategies (AEDS), where she focuses on growing the organisation's portfolio while cementing strategic alliances and partnerships. In addition, she operates in the real estate sector, where she buys, sells, and provides expert advisory services on behalf of property buyers and owners. With a strong track record of driving growth, building strategic partnerships, and developing impactful brand and business strategies, she continues to deliver value across multiple sectors. Beyond the corporate sphere, Nyasha has demonstrated exceptional leadership and governance capabilities through her service as a board member and administrator at a local orphanage. In this role, she spearheaded the development of robust policies, strengthened operational systems, and championed sustainable growth initiatives to ensure long-term organisational resilience. A seasoned gemologist with both local and international exposure, Nyasha brings deep industry expertise to her role as an Associate Lecturer at the Zimbabwe School of Mines. She is committed to nurturing the next generation of professionals by delivering high-quality training and sharing practical, research-driven insights into the global gem industry. Nyasha’s multidisciplinary background—spanning business development, governance, education, real estate, and gemology—positions her as an influential professional dedicated to creating sustainable impact and driving excellence across every sphere she serves.
Sylvester Mupanduki is a finance and investment professional with experience in equity research, valuation, and capital markets analysis, with particular focus on emerging and frontier markets. His work spans listed equities, corporate transactions, and market infrastructure, with emphasis on valuation discipline, capital allocation, financial sustainability, and risk assessment. Over the years, Sylvester was actively involved in investment analysis covering retailers, financial institutions, and other listed corporates in Zimbabwe. His analytical work has addressed issues of solvency, mergers and acquisitions, governance, and market pricing, contributing to more informed investment decision-making and improved market transparency. His research approach is grounded in evidence-based valuation, cash flow fundamentals, and long-term sustainability rather than short-term market sentiment or speculative pricing. In addition to equity research, Sylvester has been involved in applied financial modelling and feasibility analysis for real-economy projects, including property-related and investment-focused developments. His work focuses on translating financial theory into practical decision-support tools for investors, boards, lenders, and other stakeholders operating in complex market environments. Sylvester contributes regularly to The Zimbabwe Independent, NewsDay, and Business Weekly, where he writes on valuation, corporate governance, capital allocation, and capital markets developments. His commentary aims to strengthen market discipline, improve investor understanding, and encourage more transparent engagement between corporates and market participants. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance and Investment at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST). Sylvester holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from Solusi University, Zimbabwe.
Passion driven, hardworking and committed young graduate and student of the University of Zimbabwe (UZ). Over the past four years has been involved and exposed to various research work doing tasks such as data collection in surveys, data entry, data analysis, report writing, and academic research in organizations such as BESR, ARUP, Ruzivo Trust, AEDS, NORC for USAID & IFAD. Graduated top of the class in 2018 with a BSc (Hons) Agricultural Economics and Extension Degree at the UZ and was recently the second-best student in the Shared Facility for Specialisation and Electives in the University of Pretoria organised by the Africa Economic Research Consortium (AERC). Did undergraduate farm attachment at Matopos Research Station in Bulawayo over which gained deeper understanding of farm operations and research aimed at benefiting smallholder farmers. He helped several colleagues and experts with data entry and analysis in SPSS, Stata & Excel during the BSc & MSc programs at the UZ. Prior to studying at the UZ, worked as a secondary school science teacher in rural areas of Gwanda and Beitbridge districts. Tsepeso is currently studying towards an MSc Agricultural and Applied Economics degree at the UZ with an agenda of enhancing knowledge and research skills jointly in the fields of Economics and Agriculture.
An aspiring and highly motivated Economics captain of the industry from the valley of dreams Africa University. A recent undergraduate with a BSc (Hons) in Economics Degree hungry to learn as much as possible and a strong will to succeed in the field of research. Patience worked with various organisations for the past year participating in consultancy, community development areas and grant proposal writing, researches data collection in surveys, data entry, data analysis and report writing in organizations such as Bureau of Economic and Social Research (BESR), Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU) and Africa Economic Development Strategies (AEDS). She did her undergraduate attachment at Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI Mutare) which also made her gain experience in organizing meetings and workshops, managing financial records of a company, report writing and managing company database. As a researcher for BESR, she undertook economic profiling survey for ZimTrade.
Dr Carren Pindiriri has over 20 years research experience and possess vast research experience in the areas of agricultural, environmental and development economics. He is a holder of PhD in Economics from University of Zimbabwe, MPhil in Environmental Economics from the University of Oslo, MSc in Economics and BSc Economics from the University of Zimbabwe. Over the years, Dr Pindiriri worked as a consultant for the private sector, the Government of Zimbabwe and international organisations including World Bank, United Nations, SNV, African Development Bank, ODI, GIZ, and AERC, International Trade Centre and NGOs. Over the years, he worked as coordinator and a member of the national and regional technical committees on national census and IDRC survey on upscaling Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Sub-Saharan Africa (Zimbabwe, Uganda, Tanzania). Dr Pindiriri is a Senior Lecture at the University of Zimbabwe and polished researcher with several publications in international peer reviewed
