Sinokubonga Nkala
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
On Friday, Chronicle, one of Zimbabwe’s leading dailies, hosted a vibrant end-of-year stakeholders’ engagement party, complete with an awards ceremony to celebrate outstanding staff members.
Held at the luxurious Stay Afrique Hotel in Bulawayo, the event was a resounding success, bringing together journalists, stakeholders, artistes, and Chronicle staff for an evening filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie.
Guests were treated to captivating performances by the Friends Band, a popular act known for their regular gigs at Holiday Inn, while DJ Francis Ncube, a familiar face at Ingwebu Breweries Sports Bars, kept the energy high with a diverse playlist. From nostalgic classics to the latest hits, the music catered to all tastes, ensuring the dance floor was always alive.
Chronicle staffers embraced the festive spirit, donning stylish attire that added flair to the evening. A raffle draw with exciting prizes further heightened the excitement.
The highlight of the night was the awards ceremony, where outstanding individuals across various departments were recognised for their contributions. Chronicle Editor Lawson Mabhena, alongside Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) chief executive officer Nkosinathi Ncube who was the guest of honour, presented the awards.
Most notable of the awards was the longest serving member award which was given to the Editor’s secretary, Esther Linje who has been with the publication for decades. Other winners included journalist Nqobile Tshili, news intern Ashley Phiri, Charity Mugabe from the advertising department, and sports reporter Brandon Moyo.
Mabhena addressed the gathering, outlining the publication’s vision for 2025.
“Next year will be a year of digital transformation for us, as we integrate our publications under the Zimpapers brand,” he said.
Adding a playful twist to the night, Star FM personality Babongile Sikhonjwa led a humorous awards segment. Light-hearted accolades such as the “Most Inconsistent” award, the “Loudest Individual in the Newsroom” award, and the “Best Dressed” award sparked laughter and strengthened the bonds among staffers.
The evening’s MCs, Star FM’s Mkhululi Ncube and ZTN’s Andile Tshuma, kept the programme running seamlessly, engaging guests with their charm and wit.
Guests were spoiled with a variety of cocktails courtesy of Josh from The Smokehouse, adding a trendy vibe to the festivities. A beautifully crafted cake resembling the Chronicle newspaper, designed by Cake Fairy, was another standout feature of the night.
The event brought together representatives from key stakeholders, including the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Zinara, and Ingwebu Breweries. The celebration was made possible through partnerships with organisations such as Holiday Inn, Zinara, Delta Beverages, Afdis, Stay Afrique, Devine Assignments, and Ingwebu Breweries.
Councillor Sandra-Ndebele Sibindi, Heads and Hooves, Vivo Safari Bar, Cake Fairy, Pub Lagondola, Kingdom Empowerment Centre Media, Toppers, Mviyo Technologies, ZimTickets, Zimpost, Budget Cash and Carry, So Sweet, Kenneth Mhlophe, and Townshend and Butcher (Peter Leondios) also supported the event.
@MbuleloMpofu
