Sugar Chagonda Appointed ZBC Chief Executive Officer

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) has named Mr. Sugar Chagonda as its new Chief Executive Officer, with the appointment taking effect from August 1, 2025.

In a statement, the ZBC Board described Mr. Chagonda as a seasoned media and communications professional whose career spans over 20 years. Known for his leadership in public relations and strategic communication, he is expected to steer the national broadcaster into a new era of transformation and innovation.

Chagonda is no stranger to ZBC, having launched his media career there in 2004. He later joined the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) in 2009 as Head of Corporate Affairs, where he played a key role in rebranding Zimbabwe as a preferred international tourism destination.

In 2018, he moved to the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC), taking up the role of Corporate Affairs Executive. His work at the state-owned enterprise focused on strengthening stakeholder engagement, governance, and strategic communication.

In addition to his corporate achievements, Mr. Chagonda has contributed significantly to sports development. He served on the board of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and was the founding secretary general of Manica Diamonds Football Club, promoting youth participation and talent development in football.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in social studies from the University of Zimbabwe, a master’s in public policy and governance from Africa University, and an executive MBA from Midlands State University.

ZBC Board Chairperson Ms. Helliate Rushwaya welcomed the appointment, saying it marks a turning point for the national broadcaster’s content and operational direction.

“While upgrades have been made to our Pockets Hill and Montrose studios, more still needs to be done,” she said. “With the current team in place, we are committed to producing compelling local content that authentically tells the Zimbabwean story.”

She added that the broadcaster aims to shift negative perceptions by enhancing the visual and editorial quality of its programming to meet global standards.