OK Zimbabwe unveils turnaround plan

OK Zimbabwe has launched a sweeping turnaround strategy aimed at rescuing the country's largest supermarket chain from financial distress. Returning chief executive Willard Zireva described the company's recent state as "painful," citing debt, empty shelves and strained supplier relations.

Speaking on CapitalkFM, Zireva said his first steps were to restore financial stability, rebuild trust with suppliers and reconnect with customers. The company recently raised US$20 million through a rights issue and expects US$10.5 million more from asset sales. The funds are being used to settle debts and restock shelves.

Zireva outlined three pillars for the revival: financial stability, operational excellence and strong governance. Operational improvements will include store refurbishments, staff retraining and tighter cost controls, while governance changes will focus on transparency and accountability to investors.

To re-establish consumer confidence, the company has launched a new theme, "OK, Moving Forward, Stronger with You," with more community promotions and customer engagement. "I didn't see defeat - I saw an opportunity for renewal," Zireva said, adding that rebuilding would take time but progress was visible.

Analysts say OK Zimbabwe's challenges mirror broader retail struggles in an economy marked by inflation and declining consumer spending. However, they note that the company's aggressive fundraising and supplier negotiations could restore its dominance if execution is sustained.

Tagwirei's Central Committee Status Sparks Zanu-PF Row
Confusion continues to swirl within Zanu-PF over businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei's status in the ruling party, as senior officials issue conflicting statements on his co-option into the powerful central committee.

Party commissar Munyaradzi Machacha has said Tagwirei is not yet a member, contradicting claims by Zanu-PF's legal affairs secretary Patrick Chinamasa, who previously insisted the appointment was final.

The issue has become a flashpoint in the party's succession race, with Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga reportedly opposing Tagwirei's elevation, while others believe the businessman enjoys President Mnangagwa's backing.

Chinamasa, who posted and later deleted a statement on social media declaring the appointment "a done deal," has been accused by party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa of undermining procedures. Mutsvangwa has also accused Tagwirei of using money to buy influence, pointing to his donation of luxury vehicles to party structures.

President Mnangagwa, in a politburo meeting last week, warned members against divisive tactics and urged discipline in communication, saying internal squabbles risked damaging party cohesion. "We must all speak with one voice and march in one direction," he said.

For now, Machacha says only the central committee can make a final ruling. But observers note that the fight over Tagwirei's role reflects not only factional rivalries but also the businessman's growing political ambitions, which some see as a direct challenge to Chiwenga in the succession contest.