Journalist Josey Mahachi successfully persuaded Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote to commit roughly $1 billion toward investments in Zimbabwe after a decade since his withdrawn interest under former President Robert Mugabe's administration. Mahachi partnered with Bard Santner, Chief Executive Officer Senziwani Sikhosana to conduct 18 months of confidential negotiations that included visiting Dangote Group facilities in Nigeria to demonstrate a genuine commitment. The agreement targets cement production, coal extraction, electricity generation, and petroleum pipeline construction from Walvis Bay.
Dangote abandoned similar plans during a 2015 visit due to bureaucratic obstacles and challenging business conditions. Mahachi initially resisted reopening discussions because of previous difficulties, but reconsidered after persistent encouragement from a relative. The breakthrough came through discreet diplomacy and recognition of improved economic circumstances under President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mahachi's media background and continental connections through her television program, Click Africa, provided access to African leaders and business executives. Her experience serving on the Zimbabwe Investment Authority board between 2015 and 2018 gave her expertise in navigating regulatory frameworks. Implementation teams have arrived in Harare to assess potential project sites.
Dangote abandoned similar plans during a 2015 visit due to bureaucratic obstacles and challenging business conditions. Mahachi initially resisted reopening discussions because of previous difficulties, but reconsidered after persistent encouragement from a relative. The breakthrough came through discreet diplomacy and recognition of improved economic circumstances under President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mahachi's media background and continental connections through her television program, Click Africa, provided access to African leaders and business executives. Her experience serving on the Zimbabwe Investment Authority board between 2015 and 2018 gave her expertise in navigating regulatory frameworks. Implementation teams have arrived in Harare to assess potential project sites.
