SAf Symposium ’24 Highlights SEAT AFRICA’s impactful SAf Symposium 2024 was held on the 20th and 21st of June 2024 at the Cresta Lodge, Harare. Running under the theme, “Sustainable growth in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) environment,” it generated useful insights for business leaders and policymakers alike on resetting strategies for the second half of the year. The excellent line-up of speakers and facilitators included:
  • Victor Marawu – Chairman: SEAT AFRICA
  • Elisha Chibvuri – CEO: ZB Holdings – Banking Cluster
  • Mike Juru – MD: Integrated Properties
  • Patrick Jonhera – Managing Partner: AB & David Africa
  • Zvichanzii Mugota - Trade Law Expert
  • Tetiwe Nzimah – Executive Vice President for Africa & the Middle East: JCI
  • Nixjoen Mapesa – MD: PSMAS
  • Tafadzwa Chinamo – CEO: ZIDA
  • Eng. Maputi - Dean: School of Engineering & Technology: HIT (standing in for the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eng. Quinton Kanhukamwe)
  • Raphael Mushanawani – GCEO: NetOne Cellular Private Limited
  • Marjorie Mayida – MD: Old Mutual Investment Group
  • Tinashe Muyambo – CEO: Financial Services – Masawara
Delegates benefitted through speeches and SAf Exchanges (our format of discussion panels) SEAT AFRICA will produce a detailed SAf Symposium ’24 Report which we promise, will be worth reading. In the meantime, here are some takeaways from the event:
  • SEAT AFRICA is setting the stage for enhancing business organizations and economies by creating opportunities to generate insights for strategy execution and resetting. It is through the diligent execution of insight-driven strategies that Africa can progress.
  • The requirement for innovative financial solutions to capture the unbanked and the informal sector for economic growth.
  • It is critical to balance real estate opportunities with environmental sustainability. There are opportunities in local building materials production and a paradigm shift in considering waste generated from buildings.
  • Implementation of legislation must not curtail innovation. Authorities have the role of clarifying legislation and aligning it with market changes.
  • Established businesses stand to benefit from a symbiotic relationship with small businesses. Knowledge sharing and resource collaboration between established businesses and small businesses are crucial for growth and development.
  • There must be collective responsibilities in work relationships and modalities in VUCA situations. Elements that went on the radar were Gen Z dynamics, mental health, and the significance of executive mentorship for effective succession.
  • SEAT AFRICA launched and announced the 3 components of its Acknowledgement Pillar. The first awards will be in 2026:
  1. SAf Business Award (a point-based, per-quarter audit, of strategy execution);
  2. SAf Leadership Award (for the top business leader on set criteria and chosen from amongst the top 5 from the SAf Business Award-winning organizations).
  • SAf Registry of Excellence
  • Tertiary institutions have a role in collaborating with businesses to develop viable solutions in processes of research, co-creation, and talent management.
  • Amid economic challenges, genuine investment opportunities exist in Zimbabwe, and sound packaging and international exposure are key to unlocking those opportunities.
  • There is a nexus between health and productivity, and this is possible by closing gaps in workplace and national wellness programs.
  • Technologies, such as unified communication, digital marketing, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, and 5G offer essential platforms for innovation and economic progress.
  • It is essential to close infrastructure gaps, amongst other factors around activating trade agreements. These agreements are sound instruments for technology adoption, collaboration, and industrialization.
  • An exploration of regional markets requires a well-thought-out strategy. Key to penetrating successfully are diverse teams, self-assessment, and collaboration.
The SAf Symposium 2024 stressed the centrality of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration for Africa’s VUCA response. By leveraging technology, balancing regulations, fostering partnerships, and exploring market opportunities, African organizations can keep their strategies alive. Follow our Facebook, LinkedIn, and X pages for more updates, and look out for our announcement on the release of the SAf Symposium ’24 Report. We are grateful to our sponsors and partners whose contributions to the event made it possible. These include:
  • NetOne Cellular Private Limited
  • Dariro Mode
  • Vertical Momentum
  • ENTERPORT SERVICES
  • Gogo Diaries Sweden
  • Nhaka Foundation Solutions
  • Farrel Furniture
  • DMC Hotel Training Centre
  • Masawara
FOR AFRICA. Click here to visit our SAf Symposium ’24 Gallery