Sakunda Holdings chief executive officer, Kudakwashe Tagwirei, has made history by becoming the first black person to receive the prestigious Global Award of Excellence from the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA). The award was conferred upon him at Solusi University over the weekend, recognizing his contributions to education through the Bridging the Gap Foundation (BGF).
The Maryland-headquartered General Conference of the SDA Church believes this award should serve as an inspiration for Adventists worldwide to support church institutions. The Global Award of Excellence is the highest honor given to individuals who have made a significant impact on education within the church on a global scale.
Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s BGF has been instrumental in transforming at least 63 Adventist schools across Zimbabwe by providing essential resources, including tractors, farming implements, and infrastructure development. His commitment to enhancing educational facilities has extended beyond Zimbabwe to other continents, making a lasting impact on numerous institutions.
At Solusi University, Kudakwashe Tagwirei has spearheaded projects worth at least US$7 million, which are at various stages of completion. The university’s vice-chancellor, Khumbulani Mpofu, acknowledged the profound impact of these projects, emphasizing their role in making the institution self-sustaining.
Among the key initiatives is the installation of a comprehensive turnkey irrigation system at Mananda Farm. This project includes electrical and pump plants, conveyance systems, infield setups, fencing, and telemetry control systems. These improvements aim to boost agricultural productivity, ensuring the university can generate sustainable income to support its operations.
SDA Church General Conference director of education, Lisa Hardy, highlighted the significance of Tagwirei’s achievement, noting that he was the first black person to receive the award. She praised his immense contributions to education not only in Zimbabwe but across Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Europe.
“Through his Bridging the Gap Foundation, Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s outreach extends well beyond Solusi University. His capacity-building and welfare programs are making a significant impact across primary and secondary schools in the region. Institutions such as Bindura University have also benefited from his initiatives aimed at uplifting educational standards and fostering community growth. If my memory serves me right, Mr. Tagwirei is the first black person to scoop this award. He has done tremendous work in boosting the local education sector,” Hardy remarked.
In his acceptance speech, Kudakwashe Tagwirei underscored the importance of education as a center of influence that must transform nations through the implementation of tangible projects. He expressed gratitude for the recognition but emphasized that his work is driven by obedience, love, and a deep sense of mission rather than a desire for accolades.
“When we dedicate ourselves to the Lord’s work, we do not do it for accolades or recognition—we do it out of obedience, love, and a deep sense of mission. Yet, standing here today, I feel profoundly humbled that the work we do has been noticed and appreciated at such a high level,” Tagwirei said.
He further emphasized the strategic nature of his investment in Solusi University, stating, “For me, Solusi University has been more than just an institution; it is a pillar of Adventist education, a beacon of excellence, and a center of influence. This is why we have invested over US$7 million in capacity building at the Solusi farm not merely as a financial contribution but as a deliberate and strategic effort to ensure that our beloved university has long-term sustainability, self-sufficiency, and a future of excellence.”
Kudakwashe Tagwirei called on educational institutions to strive for sustainability and excellence, highlighting the need for leadership, vision, and commitment to ensure that schools and universities do not merely survive but thrive.
Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s efforts through BGF continue to transform educational landscapes, ensuring that students and educators alike benefit from improved learning environments and resources. His recognition by the SDA Church General Conference marks a significant milestone, setting a precedent for future philanthropists and business leaders to contribute meaningfully to education.
His work serves as an inspiration for individuals and institutions worldwide, demonstrating that strategic investments in education can foster long-term growth and development. As he continues to champion educational transformation, his legacy will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Adventist institutions and beyond.
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