Trust Rukwava
Centre News Arts and Entertainment
South Africa-Kudakwashe Muganu, an avid author with 2 books to his credit who also doubles up as a motivational speaker, radio presenter, philanthropist, and life coach, has bagged the best writer and motivational speaker of the year 2026 at an awards ceremony spearheaded by Africa Icon Awards in South Africa.
Muganu is affectionately known as the village boy in the marketplace, a nickname drawn from his rural experiences in Zimbabwe.
He has carved his name as a prolific writer and speaker with his voice amplified in the Zimbabwean airwaves on Capital FM and Classic 263 radio stations on a weekly basis.
Despite being a stammerer, Muganu did not allow his background or disability to hinder his career as a public speaker.
The author, who is usually invited to speak on different occasions like conferences, churches, seminars, schools, as well as parties and graduation ceremonies, said he is a new voice who inspires this current generation.
“I am the voice of this generation. I am a solution bearer. I am an agent of change. I am an unstoppable being. I am a big dreamer who is not limited by my current state,” boldly said Muganu after scooping the award.
His nickname village boy has become a brand name that inspires people who come from less privileged backgrounds to dream and pursue big dreams.
“My success and this award show that the sky is the limit. No one can measure how far you can go in life, as long as you are willing to pay the price,” added Muganu.
Muganu gained recognition at a ceremony graced by delegates from 14 African nations at Sandton Hotel in South Africa, where he lifted the Zimbabwean flag high, gathered in a single room.
He was not the only Zimbabwean who gained recognition at the awards, as socialite Tyra “Madam Boss” Chikocho, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Honorable Paul Mavhima, Dr Vivian Maponga, the National chairperson of Youth Politics and Governance, also got awards.
Organisers of the event said the awards were all-encompassing and called for unity among all African nations.
“This event proves that African nations have to work together to make a difference. Xenophobia is not a solution to build a nation, but it creates hatred, hunger, division, loss of precious lives, and destruction. We have managed to unite people from 14 African nations at these awards,” said the organisers.
Muganu aspires to take his brand beyond Africa with high hopes of speaking on the international stage.
