Explore Kuda Mutenda's remarkable transition from international corporate success to entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe, where he is building Mwana Group despite economic challenges, creating local manufacturing opportunities and establishing a legacy that extends beyond Africa.
In the heart of Zimbabwe, a remarkable story of courage, vision, and resilience unfolds; the journey of Kuda Mutenda, a man who traded global corporate comfort for the uncertain path of entrepreneurship in his homeland.
The Global Corporate Ascent
Kuda's life reads like a success story many would envy. Coming from a humble background in Zimbabwe, his academic pursuits took him to Japan, where he earned prestigious degrees in development economics and international peace and security. Though initially drawn to the United Nations, fate had other plans, steering him towards the world of global business.
His career opened his eyes to the breathtaking scope of what a single company could achieve. Working alongside traditional Japanese Corporations like Mitsubishi Corp, Marubeni and Itochu he realised that an organisation could operate in a limitless realm of production, “From pencils to spaceships.”
His professional journey took him across more than 150 countries, affording him luxuries many can only dream of; brand new cars, a beautiful home, and financial security that most would never walk away from. Amidst this corporate success, a desire to create something equally impactful in his homeland of Zimbabwe started growing within him.
The Leap of Faith
In 2019, Kuda stepped away from his comfortable corporate position, leaving behind the security and prestige to pursue entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe's challenging economic landscape. "I was driven by a burning desire to create a brand that outlives my lifetime and thrives beyond Africa," Kuda explained, his voice reflecting both determination and the weight of his choice.
The beginning of his journey was too ambitious with his company Mwana Group emerging as a holding company with ventures spanning construction, logistics, trading, and automotive solutions, all launched within the first year. The rapid expansion, however, proved unsustainable. A lack of efficient oversight, instances of theft, and the devastating impact of COVID-19 led to significant financial losses, forcing Kuda to essentially restart in 2024.
Rising from Setbacks
Rather than admit defeat and fold, Kuda strategically refocused Mwana Group on automotive solutions, specifically spare parts, vehicle service, and manufacturing of car filters. "We have temporarily scaled back to focus on our core competencies (spare parts, car service and filter manufacturing) until 2030," he stated with renewed clarity.
Kuda revealed notable progress and positive market response that has already enabled expansion into neighboring countries. What sets Mwana Group apart is their position as local manufacturers of car filters under their own brand, a rarity in a market dominated by imported parts. Kuda sees parallels between his company's journey and the early days of now-global brands, taking particular pride in creating a brand with an authentic African name: Mwana.
"Our real business is creating value, we are a value addition company," Kuda emphasizes, articulating the core philosophy that drives every aspect of Mwana Group's operations. This commitment to value creation is encapsulated in their motto: "Made in Zimbabwe, by Zimbabweans for Africa and beyond." Throughout the company, one mantra resonates in everything they do: "Pamberi nebasa rakanaka" – a Shona phrase that embodies their commitment to excellence and quality work. This guiding principle has become the cornerstone of Mwana Group's corporate culture, inspiring every team member to strive for the highest standards.
Navigating Zimbabwe's Business Landscape
The challenges of entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe proved formidable. "Securing funding for business in Zimbabwe is extremely difficult due to a lack of supportive banking systems, venture capitalists or angel investors," Kuda revealed. Without traditional funding avenues, he relied on personal networks for initial capital, an experience that has inspired a future goal to establish Mwana Financial Services to support other entrepreneurs facing similar obstacles.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought what Kuda describes as his "darkest moment." With business operations halted, money tied up in inventory, and ongoing financial obligations, the situation tested his resolve to its limits. Yet, even in this crisis, Mwana Group honored its commitments to employees and landlords which exemplifies his leadership principles.
Building for Generations
In his business operations Kuda emphasizes that the core strength of the business is the importance and strength they give to their processes, structures, and systems. "The brand and the organisation are way bigger than me or anyone else" he stated. This focus on organizational strength has empowered employees and established financial and strategic guidance that will outlast any individual.
The entrepreneurial journey has transformed Kuda himself. "Running my own business has made me more versatile, self-aware, and understanding of people," he reflects. The necessity of inspiring team members to embrace the company's vision has cultivated increased patience and personal growth.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Kuda offers wisdom that transcends conventional business advice: "Don't solely focus on money but chase something beyond it, such as a lasting legacy." His ambition for Mwana Group extends far beyond personal gain where he envisions a globally recognized brand that endures for generations, similar to established companies like Old Mutual which started off in a small tent in 1845.
Looking toward the future, Kuda hopes that when future generations study entrepreneurs of his era, they will understand that the journey was never easy and that even successful companies have humble beginnings. He affirms his belief in Mwana Group's longevity, reminding us that every business, no matter how mighty it may become, starts small.
In trading his global corporate success for an entrepreneurial purpose with no safety nets in Zimbabwe, Kuda Mutenda is not just building a business, he is crafting a legacy that honors his homeland and may well inspire generations to come.
