Former GMB boss Mutenha appointed Cottco’s new acting CEO, faces daunting task

The Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (Cottco) has appointed Roki Mutenha as acting chief executive officer.

Mutenha, a seasoned figure in the agricultural sector with experience at the Grain Marketing Board and the Agricultural and Marketing Authority, replaces Munyaradzi Chikasha who has been placed on leave.

Chikasha’s departure comes after his arrest on charges of failing to disclose his business interests to Cottco, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

Former chief executive Pious Manamike resigned in October 2022, and the subsequent appointment of Priscilla Mutembwa as CEO in October 2023 proved short-lived as the board reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with her performance.

Chikasha, who replaced Manamike was then reappointed as acting CEO.

Cottco chairman Sifelani Jabangwe confirmed the appointment of Mr Mutenha.

“We are confident that his vast experience will help stabilise the operations of the company,” he said.

Mutenha inherits a challenging situation.

Cottco, a critical player supporting Zimbabwe’s cotton farmers, is grappling with upheaval at the leadership level while facing the prospect of a record low cotton crop.

The cotton marketing season opened just yesterday with a grim outlook.

The country anticipates harvesting a mere 40 000 tonnes, the lowest yield since 2014.

Mutenha’s experience is seen as crucial in navigating these turbulent waters. His ability to stabilise Cottco’s leadership and operations will be paramount in ensuring a successful cotton buying season.

Cotton is a vital crop in Zimbabwe, particularly for marginalised regions.

Traditionally, it has been a crucial source of income and livelihood for many rural communities.

In recognition of this importance, the Government, through the Free Presidential Inputs Scheme established in 2014, has been providing significant support to cotton farmers.

The scheme offers free inputs such as fertilizers, seeds, and chemicals, and it finances a substantial portion – around 85 percent – of cotton production in the country.

At its peak, Zimbabwe’s cotton industry thrived, producing a remarkable 352 000 tonnes of cotton during the 2010/2011 season.

However, recent years have seen a decline in production, largely attributed to recurring droughts.-ebusiensswekly