By Rejoice Govera
As Zimbabwe and China commemorate 45 years of diplomatic relations, we pause to reflect on a partnership that has gone far beyond the realm of diplomacy. It has become a living engine of development — igniting infrastructure growth, lighting up homes, equipping communities, and changing lives for the better. From large-scale power projects to job creation and skills development, the China-Zimbabwe relationship has generated results that are visible, measurable, and deeply transformative.
A Journey That Changed a Country — And a Life
My personal story is a small piece in this much larger mosaic. I joined Sinohydro Zimbabwe as a young, inexperienced HR Officer, full of ambition but unaware of how significantly this role — and the company itself — would shape my future. I began my journey at the launch of the Kariba South Hydropower Extension Project, one of Zimbabwe’s most historic infrastructure developments and the first flagship project undertaken by Sinohydro in the country.
The Kariba South project was much more than an engineering feat. It was a government-to-government initiative that symbolized the strength of the China-Zimbabwe friendship. At the height of its activity, the project directly employed over 2,500 Zimbabweans, injecting income and opportunity into local households. For many, this was the first time holding a formal job. Workers were introduced to banking services, social security, medical cover, pensions, and a structured salary system — things previously out of reach.
As an HR Officer, I had the privilege of helping to establish many of the HR policies, procedures, and systems that ensured the smooth running of the project. Many of these standards are still in use today. I worked hand-in-hand with government stakeholders, local communities, regulators, and employees. The sense of collective purpose was strong. We were not just building a power station — we were empowering a nation.
Building More Than Infrastructure
The Kariba project set a strong foundation for subsequent collaborations. Over the years, Sinohydro has continued to play a central role in Zimbabwe’s development journey through numerous large-scale infrastructure and energy projects. These include:
These projects have not only stimulated economic growth but have also provided thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Employment was created in engineering, security, catering, logistics, construction, administration, and more. Communities that once relied on informal economies found stability in structured work.
The ripple effects have been far-reaching. Many employees, who previously lacked formal identification or financial literacy, were introduced to banking and savings systems. Families were able to build homes, start small businesses, pay school fees, and access healthcare. Women and youth were particularly empowered. As one example, the increase in stable incomes directly improved school attendance rates and local economic activity.
Investing in People Through Education and Skills Transfer
One of the most remarkable aspects of the China-Zimbabwe relationship is its focus on skills transfer and education. Through this partnership, dozens of Zimbabwean youths have received fully funded scholarships to study in China, particularly in fields such as engineering, project management, language, and technology. Many of these beneficiaries are now translators, engineers, and IT specialists working across Sinohydro projects and beyond.
This long-term investment in human capital ensures that development is not just about temporary jobs, but about building local expertise and leadership. It is also a form of cultural exchange, deepening the ties between our two nations and fostering mutual respect.
Rising with the Company — From Officer to Award-Winning Leader
I have personally benefited from this nurturing and growth-oriented environment. I started as a mere HR Officer, eager to learn and contribute. Over the years, through dedication, exposure, and support, I rose through the ranks to become the Group Human Resources Manager — a position I now hold with pride and gratitude.
My journey is a reflection of how empowering workplaces can unlock human potential. Along the way, I was honored to be recognized as one of Zimbabwe’s leading women in construction, receiving an award for excellence in leadership and contribution to the development sector. I am now considered one of the top HR practitioners in the country, and I owe much of that recognition to the environment and opportunities afforded by Sinohydro and the broader China-Zimbabwe partnership.
But this story is not about me alone — it is about what is possible for every Zimbabwean when opportunities are created through meaningful cooperation.
A Record of Compliance, Integrity, and Respect
One of the most admirable things about Sinohydro’s presence in Zimbabwe is its unwavering commitment to compliance and legal integrity. The company is fully compliant with national legislation, including ZIMRA (tax), NSSA (social security), and various National Employment Councils (NECs) covering sectors such as construction, mining, and engineering.
As a result of its dedication to lawfulness, ethics, and governance, Sinohydro has won multiple national awards for:
This strong track record has made the company a trusted and admired partner — not only to government, but to communities, employees, and regulators.
Additionally, the company is deeply respectful of Zimbabwean culture and values. Cultural training, language respect, and inclusion are part of our working environment. Employees are treated fairly, irrespective of race, gender, or origin, creating a space where diversity thrives and everyone feels valued.
The Broader Impact of the China-Zimbabwe Friendship
The 45-year relationship between Zimbabwe and China is not just about business or bilateral diplomacy. It has become a channel for:
This friendship has resulted in tangible improvements to lives, communities, and our economy. It has supported Zimbabwe during challenging times, and continues to be a dependable partner in our development journey.
Looking Ahead: A Future Built Together
As we move forward, I believe the China-Zimbabwe relationship will continue to grow in value and purpose. Future collaboration can focus on:
With careful planning, shared values, and continued trust, we can shape a future that reflects the best of both nations.
Conclusion
The story of China and Zimbabwe is a story of partnership with purpose. It is a model for what true cooperation can achieve: power for the people, opportunities for youth, dignity for workers, and growth for nations.
As someone who has lived and grown within this partnership, I stand as proof of its power to uplift and transform. From HR Officer to Group HR Manager, from obscurity to national recognition — this journey has been nothing short of life-changing.
But my story is just one of many. Across Zimbabwe, countless individuals and families have experienced similar growth, thanks to the strength of this enduring friendship.
Together, we have built. Together, we continue to rise.