Birmingham, UK (News of The South) – Fresh controversy has erupted surrounding the highly anticipated Zim Achievers UK Awards 2025, following a series of dramatic exchanges between the event’s CEO, Conrad Mwanza, and News of The South Editor, raising serious questions about transparency and truthfulness.
The unfolding saga began after News of The South published an article detailing alleged inconsistencies related to the upcoming awards ceremony. Sources indicate that this publication prompted a direct phone call from Mr. Mwanza to the Editor, during which he reportedly accused the news outlet of actively “decampaigning” the prestigious event.
The situation took a further twist when, shortly after the call, News of The South received a text message from Mr. Mwanza stating, “One of our Sponsors has with drawn thanks.” This message was widely interpreted as suggesting that the negative publicity generated by the article had directly led to a sponsor pulling their support for the Zim Achievers UK 2025. The sponsors for the event are Diaspora Funeral, Mukuru, Remitly, Shanyai events, Eagle Mart, Tec It, Just Mortgages, MadeIn Zwe. Out of the 8 sponsors its not known which one was being referred to.
However, the narrative took an unexpected turn two days later when the editorial team at News of The South noticed that Mr. Mwanza had deleted the aforementioned text message. Unbeknownst to him, the team had already taken a screenshot of the communication, preserving it as evidence.
The deletion of the message has ignited a firestorm of speculation and suspicion. Critics argue that the act of deleting the message, particularly after implying a direct link between the news report and a sponsor’s withdrawal, casts a significant “dark shadow” over Mr. Mwanza’s conduct and the integrity of the information being disseminated about the event.
“Why delete such a crucial message if it were factual?” questioned a source close to News of The South, who wished to remain anonymous. “The timing and subsequent deletion strongly suggest that the initial claim about the sponsor might not have been entirely accurate. It raises serious concerns about the CEO’s transparency and whether attempts were made to manipulate the narrative.”
List of Zim Achievers sponsors
The screenshot of the deleted message is now circulating within media circles and among members of the Zimbabwean diaspora in the UK, further fueling the controversy. Many are calling for greater clarity from the Zim Achievers UK organizers regarding the status of their sponsorships and the reasons behind Mr. Mwanza’s communication and subsequent deletion.
This latest development adds another layer of drama to the lead-up to the Zim Achievers UK 2025, an event that is meant to celebrate the achievements of Zimbabweans in the United Kingdom. Instead, the focus has shifted to allegations of decampaigning, inconsistencies, and now, questions surrounding the veracity of the CEO’s statements.
The incident underscores the critical role of the media in holding events and individuals accountable. It also highlights the potential for miscommunication and the importance of clear and truthful communication, especially when dealing with sponsors and the public.
As the Zim Achievers UK 2025 draws closer, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on these unfolding events. The public and potential attendees will be looking for a clear explanation and reassurance regarding the integrity and transparency of the awards. The deletion of the text message has undeniably created a cloud of doubt that the organizers will need to address swiftly and convincingly to maintain the credibility of their prestigious event.
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