Harare – Tensions are mounting at state-owned telecom giant NetOne, where three top executives are under investigation for allegedly sidestepping procurement procedures in the awarding of lucrative billboard contracts.
Head of Marketing Catherine Gijima is accused of granting a contract to Brunok Investments without following the mandatory tender process. Procurement chief Bornface Chidzodzo has distanced himself from the deal, claiming that junior staff handled the transaction. Meanwhile, Chief Commercial Officer Learnmore Masunda, once seen as an ally of CEO Raphael Mushanawani, has been drawn into the controversy as internal divisions deepen.
The scandal surfaces amid a turbulent period for NetOne, following Mushanawani’s recent arrest on US$1.2 million fraud charges linked to an internal power struggle with Masunda. Despite the arrest, the NetOne board has expressed confidence in the CEO, a stance that has reportedly intensified factional tensions and fueled speculation of political interference, with sources alleging that senior government names have been invoked during boardroom disputes.
Whistleblowers claim Brunok Investments began work before official paperwork was completed, exposing the company to potential financial and compliance risks. The alleged breach has prompted calls for the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to conduct a full-scale investigation.
When approached for comment, the Netone trio said:
- Gijima declined to respond.
- Chidzodzo said he needed time to verify documentation before commenting.
- Masunda denied any effort to influence Mushanawani’s contract renewal.
As investigations loom, analysts warn that the unfolding saga could further damage public confidence in NetOne and underscore the pressing need for greater transparency and accountability across Zimbabwe’s state-owned enterprises.
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