Radar boss Hwenga named Chartered Governance Professional of the Year

SAMANTHA MADE

Radar Holdings Limited chief executive officer, Elias Hwenga, has been named the Chartered Governance Professional of the Year 2024 by the Chartered Governance and Accountancy Institute in Zimbabwe (CGAIZ).

Hwenga received the prestigious award and was presented with the Chartered Governance Professional of the Year Trophy at a formal dinner marking the close of the CGAIZ annual conference in Victoria Falls last Friday.

The award recognises Hwenga’s exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to ethical governance, and his transformative impact on corporate stewardship in Zimbabwe.

Reading the award citation, CGAIZ chief executive and secretary, Dr Lovemore Gomera, said Hwenga has consistently championed accountability and ethical practice in every role he has held.

“Mr Hwenga demonstrated a remarkable entrepreneurial drive, spearheading agribusiness and property development initiatives. He also led landmark property projects that reshaped business communities and contributed to national economic growth.

“He has combined financial discipline, governance excellence and innovation, becoming a role model and beacon of professional integrity,” Dr Gomera said.

Hwenga, who has guided Radar Holdings through a period of strategic renewal and operational resilience, described the honour as deeply meaningful.

“I am truly honoured and grateful for the recognition bestowed upon me. I extend my gratitude to CGAIZ for deeming me worthy of this prestigious honour. While I typically live a low-key existence, I am eager to utilise my expertise in governance to enhance various institutions and drive improved outcomes,” Hwenga said.

As CEO of Radar Properties, Hwenga has been a strong advocate of a governance-first approach to corporate strategy.

“Governance is part of our culture. We integrate governance principles by aligning our strategic goals with ethical practices, ensuring transparency and promoting accountability at all levels,” he explained.

He distinguished excellent governance from mere compliance, noting that genuine governance is proactive and stakeholder-driven.

“Excellent governance is characterised by a proactive and transparent approach. Compliance is viewed as a defensive measure to avoid legal trouble. Excellent governance extends beyond mere compliance.

It encompasses proactive leadership, ethical decision-making and a sincere dedication to the interests of various stakeholders,” he said.

Hwenga also reflected on how the role of governance professionals has shifted in recent years.

“The role has evolved to encompass a broader focus on sustainability, risk management and strategic advisory, adapting to the dynamic business environment,” he noted.

In real estate, Hwenga has confronted governance challenges head-on, highlighting the absence of mortgage financing in Zimbabwe as a significant barrier for property buyers.

“Many people struggle to navigate the complex processes involved in acquiring and safeguarding their investments, making them vulnerable to fraudulent agents and land barons. This unfortunate reality has left numerous individuals devastated,” he said.

He also pointed to a defining moment when Radar prioritised ethical sourcing in its supply chain, which significantly boosted the company’s reputation and stakeholder trust.

Balancing commercial imperatives with fiduciary responsibilities, Hwenga said, is a delicate but critical act.

“We ensure alignment by fostering open communication with stakeholders and making decisions that balance profitability with ethical obligations,” he explained.

For young professionals entering the governance and accountancy space, Hwenga offered practical advice.

“I encourage young professionals to embrace continuous learning, seek mentorship and stay adaptable to the evolving landscape of governance,” he said.

Central to his leadership philosophy is embedding governance into everyday practice.

“It is important to cultivate a culture of governance through comprehensive training, transparent communication and showing ethical conduct across all levels of an organisation,” he emphasised.

Hwenga also noted how digital tools and data analytics are strengthening governance practices.

“Digital tools and data analytics enhance governance by improving decision-making processes and enabling real-time monitoring of compliance,” he said.

He commended CGAIZ for raising professional standards across the sector.

“The institute has elevated standards by providing training, resources and a platform for networking among governance professionals,” he said.

Looking ahead, Hwenga said sustainability, digital governance, and stronger regulatory frameworks will shape Zimbabwe’s corporate future.

“I foresee trends such as increased focus on sustainability, digital governance and enhanced regulatory frameworks shaping the corporate landscape. I hope to leave a legacy of integrity, innovation in governance practices and a commitment to ethical leadership that inspires future professionals,’ Hwenga said.