daniel chigunwe
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Based in the quiet town of Drouin, some 90 kilometers from Melbourne, Mr Farai Wadyehwata is proving that patriotism knows no borders.
His tireless efforts to promote investment in Zimbabwe by its diaspora have earned him recognition from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this certificate of recognition,” Mr Wadyehwata said.“This acknowledgment is not just a personal accolade but a testament to the collective aspirations of our great nation.”
Mr Wadyehwata’s initiatives have had a far-reaching impact. In January and August 2024, he hosted two gatherings at his residence, each attended by more than 35 Zimbabweans living in Australia.
Zimbabwean Ambassador to Australia Mr Joe Tapera Mhishi was a guest at both events, sharing updates on Zimbabwe’s development and investment opportunities.
Ambassador Mhishi commended Mr Wadyehwata’s dedication. “Farai is an exemplary figure in our diaspora community. His work aligns with the national diaspora policy and underscores the critical role Zimbabweans abroad play in our national development.”
The gatherings were more than networking events; they were a call to action.
Mr Wadyehwata, answering this call, travelled to Zimbabwe in 2022 to begin investments in livestock breeding and crop production.
His efforts culminated in his participation in the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in April this year, where he joined an Australian delegation of investors, the first of its kind to visit Zimbabwe in 23 years.
Speaking about his projects, Mr Wadyehwata emphasised innovation. “We are proposing advanced livestock genetics technology that could revolutionise Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector,” he said.
Through Glosta Pvt Ltd, where he serves as an African region representative, the project aims to rapidly increase livestock populations using groundbreaking methods.
Mr James Scuderi, Founding Partner of Glosta, highlighted the technology’s potential.
“With our methods, a cow can produce 30 to 40 gender-specific, grade-A embryos per month without any harm to the donor,” Mr Scuderi said.
“This technology has transformative implications for Zimbabwe’s agriculture.”
The project is currently under review by Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.
Mr Wadyehwata’s recognition is part of a broader program launched by Zimbabwe’s Diaspora Directorate, which seeks to honour individuals contributing to national development from abroad.
“To be recognised for patriotic contributions is an affirmation of the collective spirit that drives our nation forward,” Mr Wadyehwata said.
As he accepted his award, Mr Wadyehwata issued a rallying cry to fellow Zimbabweans.
“Let us remain steadfast in our devotion to our country. Together, we can transform our aspirations into enduring realities under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Mnangagwa.”
