Divine Ndhlukula

Organisers say the field day will provide valuable insights for both small- and large-scale farmers looking to expand and improve their livestock businesses. HARARE, Zimbabwe— Zvikomborero Farm, a leading agribusiness in Zimbabwe, will host a free livestock field day on Friday, March 28, 2025, offering farmers and industry stakeholders an opportunity to enhance their livestock management skills, writes Wallace Mawire. The event, located in Featherstone, about 120 kilometers south of Harare, will feature practical demonstrations, expert insights, and networking opportunities. According to organizers, the field day is being held in partnership with key agricultural and livestock organizations, including Fivet, Kurima, Lanforce Energy, Gain Farmer, Agri-Milling, Feedmix, Seed-Co, and First Capital. Zvikomborero Farm, owned by prominent businesswoman Divine Ndhlukula, has grown into a model agribusiness, integrating crop and livestock farming, feed formulation, and agricultural training. Among its key operations are the Zviko Tuli Stud, Zviko Boran Stud, Zviko Boer and Kalahari Stud, and a School of Farming Excellence. “Our goal is to create a Centre of Farming Excellence by implementing best practices in breeding, processing, and marketing,” Ndhlukula said. The farm has received significant support through the Zimbabwe Agricultural Growth Programme (ZAGP) and the goat breeding scheme. As part of this initiative, improved goat breeding stock from Namibia was imported to enhance local genetics. Additionally, the Value Chain Alliance for Livestock Upgrading Empowerment (VALUE) program has helped smallholder farmers, particularly women and youth, access better markets and improve production. Organisers say the field day will provide valuable insights for both small- and large-scale farmers looking to expand and improve their livestock businesses.

Why Female Guards Are a Smart Choice #Accelerate Action As we celebrate Women’s Month, I am excited to share why female guards are a smart choice as my mission is to support women. Traditionally, the security industry has been male-dominated, with many assuming that male guards are more capable. However, this stereotype is not only outdated but also misguided. As founder of SECURICO, despite initial challenges as a woman in a male-dominated sector, we have changed the narrative in the industry. Today, SECURICO employs over 4,200 staff, including 900 women, making us the largest employer of women in Zimbabwe outside government. Our efforts have helped in the inclusion of women in the industry from less than 1% in 1998 to over 25% today. From SECURICO’s 26-year journey and feedback from the market, we have found that female guards are often reliable, trustworthy, and effective in executing their duties. They are less likely to be involved in misconduct or dishonesty, and they tend to be more attentive, detail-oriented, and vigilant, detecting potential security threats and preventing incidents. They are often more empathetic and better communicators, able to reduce tense situations and provide exceptional customer service. Moreover, female guards are less likely to engage in aggressive behaviour, reducing the risk of conflicts and improving overall safety.  They are also more likely to be team players, working collaboratively with colleagues to ensure seamless security operations. It’s time to rethink our assumptions about security personnel and recognize the value that female guards can bring, by tapping into their potential, we can create a more diverse, and reliable security offering.  

Divine Ndhlukula is a powerhouse in Zimbabwe’s business landscape, best known as the founder and managing director of Securico Security Services. Breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, she has built one of the most successful security firms in Zimbabwe, proving that determination and vision can transform an industry. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership. Early Life & Background Born and raised in rural Zimbabwe, Divine Ndhlukula’s journey to success was shaped by a strong work ethic and ambition. She pursued higher education at the University of Zimbabwe, earning an MBA. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, she worked in various sectors, including finance and insurance, gaining experience that would later be instrumental in running her own business. Career Journey & Achievements In 1998, Ndhlukula founded Securico Security Services with just five employees and limited capital. At the time, the security industry was male-dominated, and the idea of a woman leading a security firm was almost unheard of. However, through sheer perseverance, strategic thinking, and high standards of service, she grew the company into Zimbabwe’s leading security provider. Today, Securico employs thousands of people, with a significant number being women—an achievement that has also advanced gender equality in the industry. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition by Forbes as one of Africa’s most successful women entrepreneurs. She has also received the prestigious Legatum Africa Awards and been listed among the most influential women in business. Impact & Influence Beyond business success, Ndhlukula has played a pivotal role in mentoring young entrepreneurs and advocating for women’s empowerment in the corporate world. Through various mentorship programs, she encourages aspiring business leaders to embrace resilience and innovation. Her contributions extend to philanthropy, where she supports community development initiatives and women’s financial independence. Personal Insights & Advice Divine Ndhlukula believes that success comes from discipline, hard work, and the ability to innovate in changing environments. She often emphasizes that women should not be limited by societal expectations but should instead create their own opportunities. Her advice to young entrepreneurs is to be bold, persistent, and committed to excellence in their chosen fields. Divine Ndhlukula’s story is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. From humble beginnings to leading a top security firm, she has paved the way for many women in business. As we celebrate Women’s Month, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers. Source: afrluencer.com

Divine Ndhlukula is a powerhouse in Zimbabwe’s business landscape, best known as the founder and managing director of Securico Security Services. Breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, she has built one of the most successful security firms in Zimbabwe, proving that determination and vision can transform an industry. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership. Early Life & Background Born and raised in rural Zimbabwe, Divine Ndhlukula’s journey to success was shaped by a strong work ethic and ambition. She pursued higher education at the University of Zimbabwe, earning an MBA. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, she worked in various sectors, including finance and insurance, gaining experience that would later be instrumental in running her own business. Career Journey & Achievements In 1998, Ndhlukula founded Securico Security Services with just five employees and limited capital. At the time, the security industry was male-dominated, and the idea of a woman leading a security firm was almost unheard of. However, through sheer perseverance, strategic thinking, and high standards of service, she grew the company into Zimbabwe’s leading security provider. Today, Securico employs thousands of people, with a significant number being women—an achievement that has also advanced gender equality in the industry. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition by Forbes as one of Africa’s most successful women entrepreneurs. She has also received the prestigious Legatum Africa Awards and been listed among the most influential women in business. Impact & Influence Beyond business success, Ndhlukula has played a pivotal role in mentoring young entrepreneurs and advocating for women’s empowerment in the corporate world. Through various mentorship programs, she encourages aspiring business leaders to embrace resilience and innovation. Her contributions extend to philanthropy, where she supports community development initiatives and women’s financial independence. Personal Insights & Advice Divine Ndhlukula believes that success comes from discipline, hard work, and the ability to innovate in changing environments. She often emphasizes that women should not be limited by societal expectations but should instead create their own opportunities. Her advice to young entrepreneurs is to be bold, persistent, and committed to excellence in their chosen fields. Divine Ndhlukula’s story is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. From humble beginnings to leading a top security firm, she has paved the way for many women in business. As we celebrate Women’s Month, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers. Stay tuned for more inspiring features as we continue celebrating women making an impact in business and beyond! AFRLUENCER

Located in Featherstone, 120km outside the country’s capital Harare, Zvikomborero Farms, started as a beef and grain production, but later diversified to cattle rearing (including goats), tobacco farming, poultry, horticulture, and selling eggs when Dr Divine bought it. Over time Zvikomborero Farms has grown to directly employ 29 people with many of their employees being women. The agribusiness enterprise has become a centre of farming excellence importing skills and knowledge to many aspiring goat farmers in Zimbabwe and using existing technologies, such as WhatsApp, to train women farmers on effective livestock production methods for a wider reach. Dr Divine attributes both hers, and her company’s success to hard work, resilience and support from AECF, who recognised that the business was positively impacting the livestock value chain and supported the business in scaling operations, introducing the pure breed drought-resistant cattle and the pure breeds of the Tuli, Mashona cattle, Boer and Matabele goats. “AECF funding was a game-changer, we would not have been able to breed at the level we are at now. We needed foreign currency to secure imported goats from South Africa and Namibia because in Zimbabwe there weren’t any of those breed” – Dr Divine Ndhlukula, Owner Zvikomborero Farms Source: Zvikomborero Farms – AECF

s we continue to navigate the security landscape, I would like to take a moment to address the financial realities of providing guarding services. I want to break down the costs associated with delivering high-quality security services. The cost of guarding services encompasses various components, including Uniforms and equipment, Operational costs, such as fuel, vehicles, and communication devices, and administrative expenses, including payroll, taxes, and benefits. However, the largest component of guarding pricing goes directly towards guards’ salaries. By understanding the true costs of guarding services, you can make informed decisions about your security needs and partner with providers who share your values. I urge you to look beyond the cheapest option and consider the human cost of guarding services. By choosing security providers that prioritize ethics and fairness, we can create a more equitable industry that values people. Security personnel at times suffer as they work long hours for meager wages below gazette rates at the hands of providers who undercut the pricing. This modern-day slavery perpetuates a cycle of poverty and compromises service quality. Moreover, these companies frequently disregard statutory obligations, such as paying taxes, providing benefits, and adhering to labor laws. This not only harms employees but also undermines the entire security industry. Let us work together to raise the bar for guarding services and promote a culture of respect and dignity for all security personnel.Till the next issue

Masvingo is gearing up for an inspiring and impactful gathering as the “Brunch and Business: Connecting Opportunities” event takes place on February 7th, 2025, at the Urban Lifestyle Conference Centre. This prestigious event will bring together some of Zimbabwe’s most accomplished business leaders, policymakers, and innovators for a day of transformative conversations and networking opportunities. Headlining the event is Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula, a name synonymous with excellence in business and agriculture, who has solidified her legacy as one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent figures on the global stage. As the Founder and Managing Director of SECURICO and Zvikomborero Farms, Dr. Divine has not only revolutionized Zimbabwe’s security industry but has also made significant strides in agriculture, becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for many. From humble beginnings, she built SECURICO at her kitchen table with just three employees. Today, it stands as one of Zimbabwe’s largest security firms, employing over 4,200 people and setting international standards through ISO certification. In the agricultural sector, her contributions continue to reshape the landscape, reinforcing her status as a visionary leader in both fields. Dr. Divine’s achievements have earned her widespread recognition and respect. She was named Forbes Africa Businesswoman of the Year (2019), received the EY World Entrepreneur Award Southern Africa (2014), and was recognized among the UNCTAD/Empretec Top Ten Global Women in Business. Her influence extends far beyond Zimbabwe, with her induction into the JA International Global Business Hall of Fame (2021) and numerous other accolades, including the African Leadership Legend Award (2021) and the Commendation Hero Medal for her contributions to Zimbabwe’s economy. The event will also celebrate a significant milestone for Masvingo Province: the appointment of Commissioner Stern Kondongwe as Commissioner of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS). This momentous occasion will be graced by Dr. Moses Chihobvu, the Commissioner General of ZPCS, who will serve as the guest of honor. Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, Masvingo’s Resident Minister, will also attend, underscoring the event’s importance to the province. Adding to the distinguished lineup of speakers is Mr. Sifiso Mahlangu, Managing Director of NBS Bank, who will share his expertise on banking and investment, highlighting strategies for fostering sustainable economic growth. This gathering comes at a pivotal time for Masvingo, as the government has recently approved the Tugwi-Mukosi Master Plan. This ambitious development blueprint is set to unlock vast opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy, making Masvingo a hub for investment and growth. The Brunch and Business event promises to be more than just a networking platform; it is a celebration of Masvingo’s brightest minds and boldest ambitions. With Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula setting the tone for empowerment and excellence, attendees can expect to be inspired by her story and her commitment to driving transformation on both a local and global scale. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be part of shaping Masvingo’s future. For registrations, partnerships, and inquiries, contact +263773549575 or +263719549575, or email shekinahmedia36@gmail.com. Spaces are limited, so book your seat today and join this transformative journey. Source GZTimeshttps://www.gztimes.co.zw/2025/01/divine-ndhlukula-to-speak-at-masvingo.html

The global security sector has long been plagued by two persistent challenges- a lack of professionalism and inclusivity. Globally, private security services often fail to meet international standards, compromising trust and safety. Simultaneously, the industry has been predominantly male-dominated, offering limited opportunities for women to participate or thrive. These issues are glaring in Zimbabwe, with the added challenge of high unemployment rates among women. But Divine Ndhlukula has created a change that would elevate the country’s security industry standards and foster gender equality. She established Securico, a company that has redefined excellence in security services while empowering women on an unprecedented scale. In 1998, Divine Ndhlukula founded Securico to meet Zimbabwe’s security needs; in the process, she provided more employment opportunities for women. It began as a small startup operating at her cottage with just three employees. Driven by her determination to address Zimbabwe’s lack of professional and ethical security solutions, Ndhlukula built a company grounded in integrity, efficiency, and customer-centricity. The company was the first in Zimbabwe to achieve ISO certification, a global acknowledgement of quality and professionalism. Securico has earned clients’ trust, combining manned guarding services, electronic security solutions, and cash management expertise from multinational corporations to local businesses. Securico ‘s focus on excellence has not only transformed the security system in Zimbabwe but has also placed it on the global stage as a model of professionalism. The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its client retention, with 67% of business coming from existing clients, indicating high satisfaction and trust. While its commitment to raising industry standards is commendable, its most significant impact lies in its role as a driver of gender inclusivity. Recognising the barriers women face in male-dominated industries, Divine Ndhlukula made it her mission to empower women within her organisation. Today, Securico is the second-largest employer of women in Zimbabwe, after the government, with women comprising a significant number of its workforce. The company has grown to employ over 4,000 individuals, with more than 900 being women, making it the largest private employer of women in Zimbabwe outside the civil service. From frontline security officers to managerial roles, women have found a supportive environment where they can develop their skills, advance their careers, and gain financial independence. Securico invests heavily in training and mentorship programs, ensuring women have the technical expertise and leadership skills necessary to excel. This approach has transformed the lives of individual employees and inspired systemic change, challenging societal norms and proving that women can thrive in any field. The company has contributed to reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of countless families in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, its emphasis on professionalism has raised the standards of the security industry, instilling confidence in both local and international clients.  Through Securico, Divine Ndhlukula demonstrates that African women can excel in fields traditionally dominated by men and set world-class standards. Source: https://thebenchmark.com.ng

Compliments of the Season! In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, security is no longer just a necessary expense, but a vital component of any successful business strategy. Effective security measures protect a company’s most valuable assets. Businesses can minimize downtime, reduce losses, and ensure continuity by mitigating potential security threats. This, in turn, enables companies to focus on their core operations and expand their customer base. Security also plays a significant role in building customer trust and confidence. When customers feel safe and secure, they are more likely to return, recommend a business to others, and become loyal advocates. In today’s digital age, where online reviews and social media can make or break a business, ensuring customer safety and security is paramount. A well-designed security system can also support business efficiency and productivity. By streamlining access control, monitoring systems, and incident response protocols, businesses can reduce administrative burdens, minimize waste, and optimize resources. This enables companies to allocate more time and resources to driving growth and competitiveness. As businesses continue to evolve and grow, so too do the security threats they face.  To stay ahead of these emerging threats, businesses must invest in cutting-edge security solutions, collaborate with security experts, and foster a culture of security awareness and vigilance. Security is no longer just a necessary expense, but a vital component of any successful business strategy. Until the next issue