Our #MCM today is Muchadeyi Ashton Masunda, a distinguished Zimbabwean businessman and civic leader whose life story reflects resilience, vision, and service. Born in Bulawayo in 1952, he grew up in a Christian household, influenced by his father—one of the city’s earliest Shona residents—and his godfather, Dr. Edmund Hugh Ashton.
These early experiences shaped his values and prepared him for a career that would span business, politics, and culture. Masunda’s corporate journey is vast. He has chaired and directed numerous companies across mining, insurance, construction, and the arts.
Today, he serves as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Bindura Nickel Corporation, while also leading institutions such as the Commercial Arbitration Centre, Harare International Festival of the Arts, Zimbabwe Sugar Association, John Sisk & Son Ltd, Old Mutual Life Assurance Company Zimbabwe Ltd, and Atlas Copco Zimbabwe. His influence extends further as a board member of Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe. In 2008, Masunda was elected mayor of Harare, becoming the city’s first non-executive mayor under the reformed Urban Councils Act.
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His role was largely ceremonial, chairing council meetings and representing the capital at civic functions. Though stripped of executive powers, he embraced the position as a unifying figure, advocating for governance reforms and stressing the importance of avoiding duplication of authority in city leadership. Masunda also played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s media landscape.
As CEO of Associated Newspapers of Zimbabwe, the parent company of The Daily News, he stood firm against government attempts to silence the publication. His defense of press freedom, even amid political resistance, highlighted his courage and commitment to democratic values. Beyond business and politics, Masunda has been deeply involved in sports and culture.
He is a member of the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland and has strong ties to cricket, golf, and tennis. At home, his leadership of the Harare International Festival of the Arts has nurtured Zimbabwe’s cultural identity, giving artists a platform to showcase their work and connect globally. Today, Muchadeyi Ashton Masunda remains a symbol of multifaceted leadership.
From his roots in Bulawayo to his stewardship of corporations, his defense of press freedom, and his cultural patronage, he embodies integrity and vision. His journey continues to inspire Zimbabweans, proving that true leadership blends business acumen, civic duty, and cultural pride.
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