The Distinguished African Entrepreneur Impact Award was presented at the International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership 2023 in recognition of Zimbabwean entrepreneur Tinashe Mutarisi and his philanthropic works in Zimbabwe.
Tinashe Mutarisi, the visionary behind Nash Paints, exemplifies the self-made entrepreneur. Nash Paints, born in the throes of Zimbabwe’s hyperinflation, evolved from a small retailer into a paint manufacturing powerhouse. Today, his empire spans 30 branches, employing 500+ people across Zambia, South Africa, and Botswana. Mutarisi’s journey is a testament to grit; lacking formal education, he built an empire.
Beyond business, he champions the arts through Nash Paints, backing initiatives like Bustop TV and Jah Prayzah’s Military Touch Movement, and displaying a heartwarming commitment to his community via the House of Hope Foundation and the Tinashe Mutarisi Trust.
The major highlight of the International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership in New York 2023 was the presentation of the 9th Caribbean and African Leadership Awards to deserving dignitaries. Select delegates were invited to the New York Hilton Midtown, United States, for the event.
Tinashe Mutarisi was among the distinguished business leaders in attendance. Including other renowned African and Caribbean diplomats and policymakers. The likes of H.E. President Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia; H.E. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe; H.E. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Republic of Guyana; H.E. Sen. Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, Nigeria; H.E. Prof. Babagana Zulun, Governor of Borno State; and H.E. Abraao Vicente, Minister for Sea, Culture, and Creative Industries, Cabo Verde
Other guests at the event include Olukayode A. Pitan, CEO, Bank of Industry, Nigeria; Benedito Paulo Manuel, Director General, Sociedade Mineira De Catoca Lda, Angola; Dr. Anselmo Monteiro, President of the Board of Directors, National Institute of Social Security, Angola; Edson R. Dos Santos, CEO, Etu Energias Angola; Mary Mumba, CEO, Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme Limited; and Christine Mwakatobe, Managing Director, Kilimanjaro Airports Development Company, Tanzania.
The focus of the event was to explore the challenges and progress of the African people, strengthen trans-regional cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean nations, and build strategic partnerships and bilateral cooperation. As well as increase engagements in trade and investments, innovation and technology transfer, culture and tourism, and other sectors.
The International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership featured high-level panel discussions, keynote addresses, and interactive sessions. These sessions covered crucial topics such as business partnerships, corporate social responsibility (CSR), sustainable development, infrastructure, technology, and governance.
The esteemed speakers and attendees shared their valuable insights, experiences, and success stories. Further inspiring fellow participants to seek new strategies and partnerships for advancing Africa’s prosperity.
