Timothy Fennell Ends 15-year Legacy

MUTARE – Zimbabwe’s leading tea producer, Tanganda Tea Company, has announced the appointment of Sharon Nyasha Kodzanai as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 12 January 2026, marking a major leadership shift at one of the country’s most iconic agribusiness brands.

The announcement was made in an official notice to shareholders released by the company’s Board of Directors on 16 January 2026. Kodzanai takes over from Mr Timothy James Graham Fennell, who is stepping down after 15 years of distinguished service. Fennell will remain with the company through 31 March 2026 to ensure a smooth transition.

Experience Meets Continuity

Sharon Kodzanai is no stranger to Tanganda’s operations. A seasoned executive with deep roots in the company, she has spent two decades with Tanganda, rising through senior leadership roles in finance, governance, operations and administration. She has served as Company Secretary since 2022, demonstrating strong stewardship and organisational understanding.

Before her tenure at Tanganda, Kodzanai built professional experience in both the hospitality and agri‑business sectors, giving her a broad commercial perspective that business analysts say is crucial for steering the company in an increasingly competitive global tea market.

Her academic credentials are equally impressive. Kodzanai holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Gloucestershire (UK) and a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Accounting from Great Zimbabwe University. She is an Associate of the Chartered Governance & Accountancy Institute in Zimbabwe (CGIZ), a registered Public Accountant, and a Certified Professional Director accredited by Governance Solutions Inc. (Canada), credentials that position her strongly for leadership at the top tier of Zimbabwean corporate management.

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Tanganda

Tanganda, one of Africa’s most recognised tea brands, contributes significantly to Zimbabwe’s foreign earnings and employs thousands across the Eastern Highlands, notably in Mutare, Chipinge and surrounding tea belt communities. The company’s success has a ripple effect on local economic activity, employment and rural livelihoods.

Analysts note that the internal promotion underscores Tanganda’s strategy of leadership continuity and deep institutional knowledge, in contrast to bringing in external executives who may need time to adapt to the unique demands of Zimbabwe’s agribusiness sector.

The Board has congratulated Kodzanai and expressed confidence that under her leadership, Tanganda Tea Company will continue to thrive while delivering value to shareholders and supporting the broader agricultural economy.