December 2016

2017
Here’s to doing
great things

OFFSHORE CONVENTION CREW DROUGHT INSURANCE promoting health and wellness

CELEBRATING OMICO Oldmutual

OUR EMPLOYEES RUZHOWA/UTHaNGo Vumba MOUNTAIN run
Pg.13 Pg.31 Pg.34
CONTENTS

27 28
2016 NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS QUIZ 2016 MIDLANDS SHOW SOCIETY

5 We’ve Got M@il

26 39th National Choir Festival

7 Top Companies
29 Job Swap

10 Nurturing Rugby’s Future

31 OMICO Ruzhowa/Uthonga

13 Offshore Convention Testimonials

32 Wilika Program 2016

22 Old Mutual Unveils SME Centre

33 My First 100 Days

23 Old Mutual Brings Joy to Zvishavane

34 Old Mutual Vumba Mountain Run

24 Parting Is Such A Sweet Sorrow

35 Sweet Victory

25 Graduate Trainee Programme Graduation 2016


Dream holiday from
Old Mutual!
I seldom fail to picture or anticipate impending events, especially in this age
of ICT that is associated with a glut of information, courtesy of the World Wide
Web. It is very easy for one to research on any subject, thanks to the University
of Google, so surprises are now hard and far between.
The Offshore Convention is one rare exception. From the start, I was caught
flat-footed. Here’s how: I received an instruction from the Group HR Executive,
Mrs Angeline Mundangepfupfu, to circulate a memo with the list of the winners
of the convention.
As usual, I formatted the memo for broadcast and it was only on proofreading
that, lo and behold, I noticed my name. I was number 22 out of
23 winners. Words fail to describe how I felt upon this
discovery. It was a surreal moment, but I
dutifully circulated the email broadcast as
requested and then printed a copy for myself.
When I got home, I gave the copy to my wife,
Chengetai, and tongue in cheek said, “Look
at how Old Mutual is rewarding some lucky
employees.” She read it indifferently, perhaps
wondering why I gave it to her in the first place,
only for her face to light up when she got to number
22.
We decided that we’d not share the good news with
anyone, not even our four daughters, until just before
departure. Later we relaxed that decision when we
advised both our parents, on the understanding they’d
keep it strictly under wraps.
INSIDE OUT
TEAM
4
Editor’s LETTER
Anxious moments were experienced when it came to visa applications,
but our fears proved unfounded as the process was smooth. The only
comment made by the officer who interviewed Chengetai and I was that
we should be prepared to earn a few extra pounds during the cruise. The
interview took less than two minutes!
Although Impact Incentives & Events, the convention organisers, and
Crispen Dimba from HR, did their best to prepare us for the convention,
what I experienced and witnessed on the Oasis of the Seas surpassed
even my wildest imagination.
For starters, the Oasis of the Seas is a city on water, with a capacity of
over 6,296 people. To put things into perspective, this is greater than the
combined capacity of all hotels in Zimbabwe! The Oasis of the Seas is
second only in size to its sister, the Harmony of the Seas that embarked
on its maiden voyage on the 29th of May this year.
Each of the ship’s 17 passenger decks presents a unique experience to
voyagers. It is truly a delight to culinary enthusiasts as it has a plethora
of themed restaurants. The various pubs and bars will satisfy even those
with the deepest of throats.
It is truly a remarkable ship that brings the nations of the world together.
What struck me most on the cruise liner was the standard of excellence
in service, cleanliness and attention to detail. It is difficult to fathom how
management of the Oasis of the Seas is able to keep things flawless on
this gigantic floating city.
In this issue you will find various articles from colleagues who were
on the Offshore Convention, so I’ll leave it to them to tell their
stories. Suffice for me to say the convention was a game changer.
It stretched my expectations in life and particularly challenged the
way I view and plan for vacations.
For my family, this is exciting news as they know things will
definitely never be the same again!
It was an honour to be among the 2016 Offshore Convention
Winners.
Tendai Mutseyekwa
Editor
Contact Us: editor@oldmutual.co.zw
Telephone: +263 04 308 400
Editor: Tendai Mutseyekwa
Creative Team: VPCG
Contributors: Laiza Musesengwa,
Xolani Ndhlovu, Milton Chowadzera
 WE’VE

WE’VE GOT M@IL

EMAIL US

GOT M@IL
editor@oldmutual.co.zw

Please find my feedback in response to the recently held Old Mutual 2016 National Choir Festival

WINNING
and take note of my suggestions for next time we host:

· We need to have our own choir (Old Mutual Choir) to take part
· School choirs should be included so as to pass on the tradition

LETTER!!!
· The participating choirs should be awarded a branded tee-shirt highlighting the event
(like the one the ushers had on) as tribute to the competition

Regards,
Vimbai M Magadza | Credit Administrator

HARARE ATHLETIC THE 2016

CLUB COMRADES CONFERENCE
SPONSORSHIP OF HEADS OF
On behalf of HAC and the sponsored athletes, I would INDEPENDENT
like to take this opportunity to thank you, OLD MUTUAL,
for Sponsoring Monica Kativhu and Peter Mavura to take SCHOOLS (CHISZ)
part in the 2016 edition of the Comrades Marathon.
On behalf of all CHISZ/ATS (Association of Trust Schools)
Your sponsorship went a long way in ensuring that the
members, I write to thank you for your financial support
athletes trained and competed in the planned races.
of our recent annual Conference. We are extremely
Both Monica and Peter did well at Nongoma 56km
grateful for your generous sponsorship and partnership
Ultra Marathon where they both became the first
this year.
Zimbabweans to cross the line. Monica was the second
lady home while Peter was third overall. At Comrades
Being a ‘non-profit’ organization, we rely totally on
Monica came 11th out of 12 000 women which is the
sponsorship to allow us to run this important event at the
best position by a Zimbabwean woman ever attained at
high standard to which we aspire. The Conference would
this race. After three years of preparing for this race she
not have been possible without outside sponsorship, so I
finally struck gold. This would not have been possible
thank you most sincerely for your generosity.
without the support from OLD MUTUAL. Her target is
now to be in top ten or win the race. Peter got injured
It is our hope that your involvement with CHISZ has
at the start of the race and it was a very painful incident
been beneficial to you too and that we continue to work
considering that he was fully prepared for this race.
together in the future.
Once again I would like to thank you for your continued
Kind regards
support and look forward to working together for the
TIM MIDDLETON
betterment of sport in Zimbabwe.
Executive Director
Yours faithfully,
Coach Aaron T.C Whyte

5
 APPRECIATION FOR A CASH DONATION TOWARDS
THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BINDURA UNIVERSITY
OF SCIENCE EDUCATION LIBRARY
On behalf of Bindura University of Science Education, I am writing to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for a donation
of $50 000 Old Mutual extended towards the construction of a new library at the Bindura University of Science Education. It was my
intention to thank you at the official handover, however since it has taken a bit long, I thought I should do it now.
This donation will go a long way in ensuring that our 7 000 strong student population will have a new library in the year 2016. As I write,
the construction work for phase 1 has been completed. We are now working on phase 2 through assistance from the Ministry of Public
Works, Zimbabwe Defence Forces and donations from other well-wishers.
It is our intention that part of the library would partially be opened before the 1st September 2016 for use by the students. The rest of the
works will be completed before the end of November.
As we acknowledge your donation, it is my wish that our partnership continues to grow from strength to strength and may God richly
bless your entire organization for this humane act.

Yours sincerely,

Professor E Mwenje
Vice Chancellor

BERNARD MZEKI INVITATION TO THE

HIGH SCHOOL 39TH OLD MUTUAL
CHANGING ROOMS NATIONAL CHOIR
SPONSORSHIP FESTIVALS

I would like to express my gratitude towards the
sponsorship of swimming changing rooms made towards
Bernard Mzeki School. I got to know of this wonderful
news through the newsletter brought home by my son
who is in Form 1.
The feeling upon learning this was just phenomenal
given this is from my company and my son gets to benefit
from this kind initiative.
Thank you Old Mutual Group Marketing Team for
enabling positive futures through this sponsorship. I am
so proud to see my company being involved in doing
great things for its wider communities.
On behalf of Avondale Parish Choir we would like to
thank you so much (Old Mutual) for the opportunity you
gave us in the just ended Old Mutual National Choir
Festival. Indeed this will help us in a long way as far as
choral music is concerned; indeed we learnt much and
enjoyed the event.
Thank you and God bless you.
Gilbert
(for Avondale Choir)

Grateful,
Vimbai Matsika - OMLAC

6
Engage
Commit
Deliver
Top Companies Survey 2016

7
 The 2016 Top Companies survey dinner was a spectacular evening held
on the 11th of November at the Meikles Hotels’ Stewart Room. It was a
night of food, drinks, glamour, live music and most importantly a night
where the country’s Top Companies where given due recognition.
The third Old Mutual sponsored Top Companies Survey, was themed
Engage, Commit, Deliver. The theme embodies the vision of the Old
Mutual group to all its stakeholders and is a rallying call for all companies
to engage with their customers as they seek to deliver value.
The theme calls for companies to develop effective and efficient product
lines that satisfy customers fully. When companies display commitment,
they are able to strengthen local partnerships and excel.
CABS Deputy Managing Director, Mehluli Mpofu, represented Old Mutual
at the gala dinner.
“Old Mutual has a mandate to play a leading role in demonstrating
and promoting best practice in business. Even though 2016 has been a
very challenging year for business in Zimbabwe, it is in tough times that
champions rise to the occasion,” said Mpofu. As the country’s largest
and leading integrated financial services group, with tentacles reaching
8
virtually every sector of Zimbabwe’s economy, Old Mutual has also
remained resolute and managed to accomplish notable milestones during
2016 namely:
• Opening the Bulawayo Green Zone and Zvishavane mini Green Zone
• CABS branches continued refurbishments
• Trained over 12,000 people in On The Money, our financial literacy
programme
• Established a tree nursery at Siabuwa High School in Binga
• Set up a technology centre at Mucheke Library in Masvingo
• Established a tree nursery at Siabuwa High School in Binga
• Set up a technology centre at Mucheke Library in Masvingo
• Installed solar power and boreholes at four rural clinics
• More recently, started works towards the construction of the Eastgate
SME Centre that is set to transform that sector in Zimbabwe
• We also embarked on various sponsorships in the field of sports, the
arts and culture.
Mpofu added that companies that are able to weather the storm by
coming up with effective strategies in tough times will excel when there is
an economic upswing.
 TOP COMPANIES 2016
2016 TOP COMPANIES SURVEY WINNERS

CATEGORY COMPANY
Best Perfoming Company NATFOOD
First Runner-Up BAT
Second Runner-Up
DELTA
Disclosure & Investor Relations

Best Bank STANBIC

Best Bank Runner-Up STANCHART
Best Life Assuarance FML
Best Short-Term Insuarance NICOZ
Special Mention Most Improved Rank ART

9
 OLD MUTUAL NURTURING
RUGBY’S FUTURE

Old Mutual believes in nurturing children around rugby culture. From tag rugby clinics to full contact training camps. This year evidently
featured a new team, freshly introduced to the world of international competitive rugby.

The Zimbabwe U13 team prepared well for this year’s Craven Week by attending the coaching clinics sponsored by Old Mutual.
Subsequently the boys improved with each session, building a solid team foundation and strengthening their skills. Their teamwork and
match confidence developed as they played on, granting them a win in the 2nd match and narrowly losing the last match to Namibia.

ZIMBABWE U13 RESULTS

04 July:
Griquas U13 25 - 3 Zimbabwe U13 (Paarl Gimnasium C-Field)
05 July:
Zimbabwe U13 12 - 6 Border CD U13 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field)
07 July:
Border U13 30-7 Zimbabwe U13 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field)
08 July:
Namibia U13 18-14 Zimbabwe U13 (Paarl Gimnasium A-Field)

10

CRAVEN WEEK ACROSS THE BOARD
Star-studded team shines at Craven
Week
The Old Mutual Zimbabwe U16 rugby side’s brilliant run at the U16
Coca-Cola Grant Khomo Week was highly commendable. The U16
team was star studded and all training sessions were purposeful and of
admirable quality. The selection process for the team was difficult as all
of the boys at the inter-provincial competitions aim at becoming an Old
Mutual Young Sable.
The boys hit the ground running and won by an impressive margin against
Boarder CD in their opening game.
The second game was highly competitive which they narrowly lost to a
well-respected Valke Side. The fast flowing, hard running rugby Zimbabwe
displayed, won the hearts of many spectators. Seven of the first 15 were
offered Academic bursaries by top South African rugby schools.
ZIMBABWE U16 RESULTS
04 July:
Border CD U16 0 - 41 Zimbabwe U16 (Paarl Gimnasium D-Field)
06 July:
Valke U16 20 - 12 Zimbabwe U16 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field)
08 July:
Namibia U16 5 - 15 Zimbabwe U16 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field)
Rugby in the eyes of true sportsmanship
The Zimbabwe U18 boys displayed great teamwork and sportsmanship
throughout the entire tournament. Playing with heart and as a team saw
them break a record which had stood for over 3 years of the Zimbabwe
under 18 side not winning a match at the Craven week.
NURTURING RUGBY’S FUTURE
ZIMBABWE U18 BOYS RESULTS
11 July
GWK Griquas Rural U18 9 - 16 Old Mutual Zimbabwe U18
(Stott Field, Kearsney College)
13 July
Griquas U18 78 - 5 Old Mutual Zimbabwe U18
(Stott Field, Kearsney College)
16 July
Namibia 3 - 34 Old Mutual Zimbabwe U18
(Osler Field, Kearsney College)
Breaking stereotypes on the field
Through sponsorship, Old Mutual has managed to push the culture and
focus of rugby within communities especially in the female sector. The girls’
team continues to thrive and is the most successful Zimbabwean rugby
team this year.
They finished 3rd overall in the tournament and won two games out
of three. Preparation set them up well as the whole team camped at
Goromonzi High for a good week before travel in addition to the six
training session at Alex sports club.
The Zimbabwe U18 girls played a physical game that rattled and surprised
their South African opponents. The girls are loving the sport and enjoying
the social interaction with other motivated girls. Winning the 2017
tournament is on the cards for Coach Sykes and his team. Old Mutual
has been pushing the rugby agenda in schools and most recently the
movement has reached high school girls. They have grasped the sport
and are proving to do exceedingly well.
ZIMBABWE U18 GIRLS RESULTS
03 July: SWD 5 - 20 Old Mutual Zimbabwe
05 July: Limpopo 5 - 43 Old Mutual Zimbabwe
08 July: Old Mutual Zimbabwe 5 - 10 Eastern Province
11
 Enabling Positive Futures
AGE Position: Centre
Height: 1.68m
15
Weight: 65kgs
School: Peterhouse, Marondera

‘Bolt’ represented the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sable at the 2014 U13 Craven Week Tournament.
Following eye catching performances at the tournament, he had six top South African schools offer him
full rugby scholarships. He also had two schools from the United Kingdom offering him the same, but he
eventually settled with Johannesburg’s top private school, St. Stithians, where he is progressing well. He
also represented Lion’s U16’s at Grant Khomo this year. A name to look out for for sure.
Munashe Chaitezvi #OldMutualShapingCareers

AGE Position: Loose Forward

Height: 1.83m
19
Weight: 95kgs
School: Falcon College, Bulawayo

Connor represented the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sables at the 2015 Craven Week Tournament.
Connor is currently at the Sharks Academy. He recently captained the Old Mutual Zimbabwe team at
the World Rugby U20 Trophy in April 2016. He was also named in the top five best players at the global
showpiece.

#OldMutualShapingCareers
Connor Pritchard

AGE Position: Prop

Height: 1.80m
20
Weight: 117kgs
School: Christian Brothers College, Bulawayo

Justin has been at the Sharks Academy for over 18 months. He most recently represented the Old
Mutual Zimbabwe U20 team at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in April this year.

#OldMutualShapingCareers

Justin Mendelsohn

AGE osition: Hooker

Height: 1.69m
19
Weight: 92kgs
School: Falcon College, Bulawayo

‘Beast’ captained the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sables at the 2015 Craven Week Tournament.
As well as featuring at the 2014 U18 and 2010 U13 Craven Week tournaments, he also played in
the 2013 Grant Khomo Week. Upon leaving school, Brian had a number of offers from professional
rugby franchises but opted to take up a rugby scholarship with Life University in Atlanta, Georgia. Life
University has one of the best college rugby programmes in the USA.
Brian Mutanga #OldMutualShapingCareers

AGE Position: Second Row

Height: 2.01m
20
Weight: 111kgs
School: St. John’s College, Harare

Eli represented the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sables at the 2014 Craven Week Tournament as vice-
captain. He also represented Zimbabwe at the U13 Craven Week in 2009.

Eli has gone on to play Currie Cup rugby for the Blue Bulls U19. He represented the Junior Springboks
at the Wolrd Rugby U20 Championships in Manchester, England earler this year.

Eli Snyman #OldMutualShapingCareers

12
 Testimonials
By Archiford Chivanga

It is certainly too difficult to explain the wonderful sojourn to the US, Haiti, Mexico, and Jamaica
that was extended to my wife and I, courtesy of Old Mutual. Nothing has changed us more than
this trip.

My wife and I enjoyed the experience from the very moment we left Zimbabwe aboard South
African Airways. Even though the flight from Jo’burg to New York was taxing...the adrenaline to
see the other side of the world kept us at bay. Getting away from the pressures of everyday life
was wonderful at the same time refreshing as ever. Just being in the international terminal at the
O.R Tambo International Airport gave us chills and the memories will forever be etched, from the
Bidvest departure lounge to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Nothing has changed me more than this trip. The places I explored and the people I connected
with. While living your normal life, it is easy to lose sight of the importance of getting your head
out of the sand and seeing things from a different place, culture and perspective.

We (my wife and I) had a bookish knowledge about the places (Haiti, Mexico, New York) we
visited but being there changed us in so many ways. A week at a wellness retreat in the renowned
Oasis of Seas cruise ship – its silky and plushy dining rooms and its pleasures can never be
captured even by the world’s best wordsmith – it was more than satisfying and showed us a bit
more about freedom that too many of us take for granted. The trip taught me that hard work
pays and should be prioritized.

From the corporate life of New York to the sunny side of the Caribbean more specifically barefoot
Labadie beach in Haiti, - life can never be more exciting than that. Among the memorable things
about the tour was the Bob Marely Nine Mile Tour in St Ann, Jamaica. I never got to understand
why the legendary crooner wrote a powerful chantey about Zimbabwe, until I saw our own
Zimbabwean flag inside his home. The flag was said to be one of his greatest possessions.

The last stint at the Empire building in the States planted the idea in my head that I need to see as much of the world as often as I can. I learned that
with the right inspiration and passion – happiness and money could actually co-exist.

13
 OFFSHORE CONVENTION EXPERIENCE
By Gamuchirai Hungwe
It all started as a dream, a dream that I could not believe myself.
The Journey
We took an hour-thirty minutes long flight to Mzansi, had a momentary
stay in transit in the Bidvest VIP Lounge before embarking on a 16 hour
long flight to JF Kennedy Intl Airport (New York). From there we took
another connecting flight a further three hours to Fort Lauderdale. We
were then transferred into a state of the art ‘Academy’ coach where Wi-Fi
was available on the go! A twenty minute drive brought us to a big ‘dream
holiday’ floating in the deep blue waters - the Oasis of the Seas.
Oasis of the Seas
The Ship is owned by Royal Caribbean International. It has17 decks
(floors), measuring 362 meters in length, a passenger capacity of 5 400
plus over 2000 crew members and has a gross tonnage of 225 282 with
a cruising speed of 42 km per hour. It is one of the largest cruise ship in
the world.
The ship features a zip-line, a casino, a golf course, multiple night clubs,
several bars and lounges, a karaoke club, five swimming clubs, volleyball
and basketball courts and theme parks. Each room has a balcony
overlooking the sea.
The Food
Now I come to the favourite part of my story – the food. To say that there
was a lot of food is an understatement if not misrepresentation of facts.
To help you understand let me just say that foods like Pizza were available
anytime of the day/night and FREE! I remember leaving my bed at 00.15
to go grab a few slices of pizza and a glass of Piña colada. I would
normally ask myself why humans were created with such small tummies.
Sadly, on the 3rd day of the cruise, I had a running tummy and couldn’t
take as much food as I wanted. A day wasted indeed. Thank God by the
fourth day I was up and running. We had an unlimited package for drinks
14
which one could take from any outlet that you could think of. There were
a number of eating places scattered across the ship – Silk, Sorrento’s, and
my favourite being Windjammer Market place.
Countries Visited
Hear it from me; we went to the United States of America. It’s the second
time that I have done so in a space of two years – of course both times
courtesy of Old Mutual. I’m sure others will tell you that we had some
moments to enjoy in Haiti, Mexico and Jamaica – Yah Man!; we were
there. All in all we had an incredible seven night cruise full of relaxation,
enjoyment, food, fun, amusement, wonder and you name it. We had it all
in seven days.
New York
It’s one city of its kind. I will not try to describe what I saw because I know
I’m not good at that. Let me just tell you that we had a nice time. We visited
the Empire State Building, Wall Street, the memorial of the Twin Towers,
the American and the New York stock exchange, the Statue of Liberty and
we finally went for shopping. I’m not sure how many stars the hotel that we
were staying in has – but I think it’s eight. It is in this world but with service
out of this world. I enjoyed every moment in it.
My story will be incomplete without mentioning the fact that we had the
dazzling Gala night in New York at River Café where all the offshore
delegates were honoured. It was a night to remember. Unfortunately I
cannot tell you everything; you have to be in the next offshore convention
so that you will ‘see it on the nose like tobacco’.
Once again, I say THANK YOU to Old Mutual for such a wonderful
recognition scheme. I am happy to advise you that seats for next year’s
Offshore Convention are still up for grabs. Unfortunately, two seats have
already been occupied – the Group CEO’s and mine. So I urge you ladies
and gentleman to work hard for the 23 remaining seats.
I thank you.

AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE
By Mrs Jeche
The news came to me like a bullet in the air. I was shocked and puzzled. All
l could do was to kneel down and give thanks to the Almighty.
OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
We left Mexico and sailed for about two days till we reached Jamaica. We
also went to the Bamboo Beach Club where we had a lot of fun, playing
in water and relaxing in the sun. From Jamaica we sailed to Haiti. This is a
very small country with a lot of art and craft activities going on. We again
spent most of the time at the beach having fun.

This amazing journey started on the 25th of June 2016. It all began when
the Old Mutual Zimbabwe acknowledged my husband, Gift Jeche, as a
hard working man who deserved to be given royal treatment. They also
noted that behind every successful man there is a woman, this gave me the
opportunity to accompany my husband to the United States of America.
What shocked me most was that I had never travelled by plane in my
entire life. We left Zimbabwe for South Africa around 1pm. On arrival,
we connected to New York aboard the South African Airways and it took
us about 16 hours to get there, where we then boarded another flight to
Florida.
Still puzzled by the idea of travelling by air, l was introduced to yet another
great adventure of my life. This was the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
Cruise, one of the biggest ships in the world. It is about 2,5 acres long and
has up to 17 decks.
We left Haiti and travelled back to Fort Lauderdale where we boarded the
Jet Blue to New York. On arrival in New York we toured the Empire State
Building which was built in 1930 and has 102 floors.
The Gala Dinner on the 3rd of July 2016 left us tongue tied. It was
marvellous. We were hosted like kings and queens at the River Cafe which
is under Brooklyn Bridge on the Hudson River where prizes were presented
to the winners of the Offshore Convention.
Lastly but not least l would like to thank Old Mutual for this wondrous event
in our lives. I would also like to thank my husband for working so hard in
achieving the intended goals of the company. Above all may the glory be
to God Almighty who gave us this testimony and a history to be told to our
great grand children.

What amazed us most is the inside of the ship. A lot of events took place
in each and every deck of the ship. The ship is like a world on its own.
I enjoyed strolling through central park garden with its beautiful flowers
and trees.

We had a lot of fun swimming and bathing in the sun. I really enjoyed it.
Food, drinks and beer were unlimited. We ate and drank until we were
exhausted, especially food from Windjammer dinning on deck 16. It was
so delicious.

We sailed for about three days till we reached Mexico. We learnt about
how chocolates are made in Mexico. We also had a lot of fun at one of
the beaches in Mexico.

15
 DOING GREAT THINGS FOR STAFF
By Cathrine Maliseni Spouse to George Maliseni
The excitement started on 26 April 2016 when George broke the exciting
news of the Offshore Convention.
Cruising in the Oasis of the Seas was just awesome; it was a great
experience cruising in such a big ship. It’s a mini city everything you can
think of from restaurants, theatres, swimming pools to golf course and
basketball court all housed in it. It was exciting and a wonderful experience.
The highlight of the trip was a tour to see where Bob Marley, the king of
reggae, was born and buried at 9 Miles. At one stage we were driving at
about 3500m above the sea level, the road was narrow and meandering
it was breath taking. As reggae fans, both my husband and I, it was a
wonderful experience to tour the place. We saw the single bed he sang in
one of his top chart song, we were all surprised to see the Zimbabwean
flag in the single room he once used.
From Haiti we cruised back to Miami where we caught the flight to New
York City. New York is an amazing city which doesn’t sleep, pavements
always packed. We visited Empire State Building with 102 floors. At the
86th floor you could see the entire New York City landscape. The place
is flocked by tourist; by the time we left the building there was a very long
and snaking queue of tourists who wanted to tour the building. We had
our dinner at HB Burger.
On Sunday we went shopping to Woodbury Shopping Complex which is
a two hour drive from New York City. In the evening we received Royal
treatment, where we were driven in limousines to River Café in Brooklyn for
a gala dinner. The evening was the most important day of the trip because
it was the recognition and award receiving for spouses.
I am very grateful to Old Mutual Zimbabwe for the great opportunity. I
never dreamt of such an awesome, joyous and amazing trip. True to your
word, you Do Great Things, not to just your customers but also to your
staff. No words can describe how grateful we are. The trip will remain in
our minds forever. Above all we would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Mushosho
for hosting us in a hospitable way.
16
TRIP CHANGED MY LIFE
By Rosemary Mavunga
I would like to thank God Almighty for the grace to be a delegate on
the 2016 Offshore Convention for the third time running. My great
appreciation goes to Old Mutual for such a magnificent way of recognizing
its champions. A hearty thank you to our hosts of the convention, Mr. and
Mrs. Mushosho, Impact Incentives and all who worked behind the scenes
for coming up with this brilliant package to witness, explore and experience
this wonderful and unforgettable seven nights of excitement on the Oasis
of the Seas cruise ship. “Feeling gratitude, and not expressing it, is like
wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward
The fun actually started at the Harare International Airport on the 24th of
June 2016. Meeting a group of Champions and their partners realising
what I thought was a dream all along was indeed reality.
The warm welcome at OR Tambo International Airport, the luxury and
grandeur of Bidvest’s VIP Lounge sent my heart skipping with joy. I asked
myself, “Who am I Lord, to be singing your praises, going on an all
expenses paid trip.”
Fort Lauderdale here we come. Just the sight of the ship was enough to
melt away my heart. What a difference with the kind of boats at Kariba!!
This is actually a 17 deck hotel on water with all sporting, entertainment
and leisure facilities and more.
What a wonder it was to explore Cozumel in Mexico, Falmouth of Jamaica,
Labadee of Haiti, swimming in the salty waters of the vast oceans and
playing beach volley ball on the island of Haiti.
The time I spent aboard The Oasis of the Seas changed completely the way
I look at life. I had a chance to create new friendships, to talk to people
from other countries. I felt valued to be among the rich and famous from
all parts of the world. There is more to life than we can ever imagine.
The tour of the New York City September 11th memorial site, Empire State
Building and Wall Street left me with an answer as to why some countries
are called developed and others developing.
To our hosts, it’s not everyone who has a boss who is so generous, humble
and accommodative and I feel blessed and honored to be part of your
family. Thank you for extending your time to dine with each couple. Who
would have ever thought that Rosemary Mavunga, a ghetto girl would
someday dine with you, the Group CEO of such a big organisation on the
Oasis of the Seas cruise ship.
I will forever support my husband Wellington, to ensure that he remains
a champion.

WORDS DO NO JUSTICE...
By Fadzai Zvoushe
They say that life is full of surprises!! Qualifying for the offshore convention
this year was just that!!
From the moment Mr Mushosho announced that the convention this year
was going to be a trip of a lifetime, I already began to imagine how much
better it could possibly be in comparison to the Miami and Disney trip
in 2015. It couldn’t possibly get better, could it? Surely not! BOY was I
wrong!!
It wasn’t that as we arrived closer to the port and I saw the size of the ship
my jaw dropped; oh NO it was the glamour that greeted me as I set foot
onto the ship. All the lights and people, it felt like I had just stepped onto
the largest most glamourous hotel lobby. I had googled the ship closer to
the travelling date and I was excited but the experience in itself was surreal.
Seventeen decks of activity for the next seven days, so many choices of
entertainment, from broad way shows, aqua shows, the spa (you know
ladies), live comedy, the list is endless!! There was something for everyone.
There is no way I cannot mention the food and drinks, there was just a
free flow and I can safely say I did not worry about packing on the pounds
on this trip! Meeting new people and hearing about the different parts of
the world they were from and just how long they had saved to take the
cruise definitely made me feel so blessed. I mean how many of us can say
they have had breakfast as they looked out to sea watching a school of
dolphins swim alongside their ship?
We visited three beautiful Caribbean islands. Mexico and Haiti were great
but I had the most fun in Jamaica. I took a tour through the life of Bob
Marley. On the bumpy trip up to Nine Mile, his birth place, I got to see
where Christopher Columbus first arrived in Jamaica and also a bridge
he made slaves build which still stands till this very day. The tour was a
great insight into how the legend, Bob Marley lived and also made me
realise how much Jamaicans love life and Zimbabweans too. I saw the
resting place of Bob and his brother which is a beautiful monument above
ground, a white marble double grave. On the island we enjoyed Jamaican
cuisine, the famous jerk chicken and I even brought home some of Bob’s
mothers chilli sauce.
There is so much more I would love to mention like breath taking New York
City and the lavish gala dinner but one just needs to be there to experience
it themselves. My words do no justice. My only prayer now is to again be
a part of this convention and to continually be motivated to do just what
it takes to be there.
OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
MY BEST HOLIDAY EVER
By Muriel Chabuka
The mega Oasis of the Seas loomed like a condo building or perhaps an
office park. The ship was amazing, making an impression even before you
board. The ship’s Royal Promenade gave the impression of a hectic mall
rather than a cruise ship. I enjoyed some retail therapy on the board with
fantastic designer boutiques selling everything from cosmetic to fragrances
and jewellery like Michael Kors.
The staff members were terrific. The food was good everywhere and we
mostly had breakfast and lunch in Windjammer Market Place. The huge
Opus dining room was divided into three separate dining rooms each with
a different décor. It was so lovely to see and we mainly had our dinner in
the Silk dining room.
I visited Broadwalk - waal! with rock climbing walls and a carousel feeds
naturally into the aft deck sports and activity areas , several decks above
where you find the basket ball court, table tennis area and a short zipline.
Also Solarium, Serenity, Central, Park and Vitality Spa and fitness center.
It was really amazing to see a lot of live plants and trees in Central Park.
As the giant cruise ship made its way around the Caribbean it stopped at
Cozumel which is a small island off the coast of Mexico .The next stop was
Falmouth, Jamaica which offered a wide variety off shore excursion under
the safety and supervision of professional attentive guides. We proceeded
to Haiti where we spent the day on the beach. It was really exciting and
enjoyed singers from Haiti.
After seven days in Oasis of the Sea we left for New York City. It is unlike
any other cities in the world. It is really a place where people should live
at least once in their lifetime. Well worth the visit and views were amazing.
Conquering New York City in one visit is impossible. The Empire State
building oh!! what an amazing iconic and historical building. The elevator
ride was a rush (30seconds) to the 86th floor. The view from the Empire
State building was awesome, the architecture is beautiful. Uncountable Sky
scrappers!! Great views but the queues were massive and the observation
deck was really crowded. View from the top was spectacular, exploring
each of the sides.
Another notable not to be forgotten site was the Brooklyn Bridge. Fantastic
and thrilled to see it, neat work of engineering. Also the statue of Liberty
was incredible.
This was my best holiday ever. Many thanks to Old Mutual.
17
 FIRST TIME ON A PLANE
By Munyaradzi Hwandih
Winning the Offshore Convention award in Sales and Service Excellence
was a life changing experience for me and my wife. It opened up avenues
which we never imagined exploring. For instance, it was our first time to
board an aeroplane as well as travel overseas. We could not believe it was
really happening as the flight attendants were checking our seat belts and
the onboard video began to play the safety procedures. It was even more
surreal as the plane taxied off the runway and the flight crew welcoming us
on board and highlighting to us the speed, duration of flight and altitude
at which the plane will be travelling above sea level.
Upon arrival in New York City, a real surprise hit us when we disembarked
the plane at JF Kennedy International airport which is one of the largest and
busiest airports in the world. We soon began to see the huge difference in
infrastructure between back home and the modern New York City.
We connected onward on a flight to Fort Lauderdale, a port city where
we proceeded to board a gigantic cruise ship which needed one to be in
helicopter to allow you to take a full size picture.
In brief, The Oasis of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the whole
world. It had 17 decks comprising of seven distinct neighbourhoods, 25
dining options and 2 394 crew members waiting to serve us with a carrying
capacity of 6 296 passengers.
Whilst onboard the majestic Oasis of the Seas on Day 1, we were so
excited, confused and at the same time eager to explore the ship. We
proceeded straight to our guest room which was situated on deck 11.
Soon after settling, everyone was called for a mandatory lifeboat drill just
before sailing. The drill was a relief because we were assured of our safety
as we waved goodbye to Fort Lauderdale and set sail for our first port
of call, Cozumel in Mexico, followed by Falmouth in Jamaica and lastly
Labadee in Haiti.
On the ship, we enjoyed food at the popular Windjammer restaurant
which was situated on deck 16. It was always filled with a variety of food
18
on a self-service arrangement. We really enjoyed the facility of having a
heavy breakfast whilst enjoying the spectacular view of the ocean.
Of all the ports our most memorable experience was in Jamaica. We had
booked an excursion which took us on a tour around Falmouth, visited
the famous St James Parish Church on our way to John Hall plantation.
We also had the privilege to eat Jamaica’s traditional delicious dishes
comprising 100% jerk chicken or pork, Ackee & saltfish, steam callaloo,
roast breadfruit, to mention a few. It was indeed a wonderful day not to
forget and moreover rubbing shoulders with the real Rasta man chanting
‘Patwah” as we listened to some conscious roots reggae.
Haiti was our last stop as we headed back to New York City, for another
exciting adventure as we toured the famous city. We visited the Empire
State Building, Memorial Park, Wall Street Palisade and we also had a
close view of the Statute of Liberty. Every minute in New York was exciting
and unforgettable.
During our tour, we also got the opportunity to dine with our GCEO Mr
Mushosho and his wife as well as our OMICO MD Mr Muthe and his wife.
It made us truly grateful, for this is an opportunity that one would not want
to miss.
Our experience on this journey has changed our view of the world since
we were exposed to other countries and other cultures. Moreover I am also
grateful to Old Mutual for appreciating the effort I put in my work as well
as appreciating the support I get from my spouse to be what I am today
and with this in mind I also take pride in the work that I do, knowing that it
is helping us to achieve our company goals.
Lastly but not least, I would also want to thank the Greenzone Harare Team
for the support they gave us to make this award a success.
I take this opportunity to urge my fellow colleagues to work diligently and
make excellence their daily pursuit. You never know, it may be you telling
us your experience around this time next year.

AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
By Nesiah Matope
If l was still school going age, life will would be more exhilarating
as l would anticipate the day my teacher giving us a composition title to
write something like “the day l will never forget”. In this instance, I would
choose, “the unforgettable experience”. It was such a privilege and honor
to hear the news from my husband and l just thought it was one of those
“usual trips”. Little did l know that it was something extraordinary and
astonishingly amazing. Being my first time to board a plane and to receive
royal class treatment, at one time l thought this was the heaven on earth
people always talk about.
As we waited at OR Tambo International Airport, the fun we had at Bidvest
VIP Lounge was a prophetic pointer to the kind of treatment we were going
to have ahead of us. After 16 hours in the clouds we arrived in New York
and l felt a change in the air we were breathing. We later connected to Fort
Lauderdale to board the ship, Oasis of the Seas. Seven days and Seven
nights in this immaculate ship was a breath-taking experience. The premier
package we were booked under gave us access to anything we would
crave for from food, beverage and any type of snacks or nibbles. The
seven nights on the Oasis were spent in motion and it gave us a glimpse
of beautiful cities in Mexico and Haiti.
On this ship we were treated by a wonderful crew to various activities, from
evening functions, sporting activities such as golf and swimming. We had
an opportunity to try out new things like floor riding and zip lining. Another
romantic moment with my spouse was the time we viewed the sea from
the balcony and watched the sunset, not forgetting when we walked on
the beach bare footed and playing with the sand with our hands. We felt
so rejuvenated and fell in love all over again. If I was to be given another
chance to choose another spouse l would still go back to the one and
only Chris Matope. Many thanks to him for enduring hard moments and
coming out a shining star in his performances at work. Last but not least
my sincere gratitude goes to Mr. Mushosho and the entire Old Mutual
management.
Thank you for awarding us this unforgettable life time experience.
OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFE TIME
By Elijah Sithole
“It is better to see and experience something once than to be told about
it a thousand times”. This was an inscription on one of the bill boards in
Cozumel - Mexico. The 2016 Old Mutual Offshore Convention was an
experience of a life time, a great experience of adventure. It made me
appreciate my job at Old Mutual and most importantly realise that it is
more of a privilege than a right to be associated with the Old Mutual.
For me I would want to be on the 2017 list AGAIN.
Once you experience the fun of the convention, it brings out the best in
you in your work performance because you want to re-live the experience
over and over again, year after year. When I took time to reflect on how we
found ourselves on the 2016 list (my wife, who is my business partner, and
I), it dawned on me that it was not sheer luck… It was because as we went
about our day to day work activities in 2015 we embraced the ACT NOW
principle in its totality. (I want to acknowledge the tremendous support that
I get from my family, most importantly my wife)
When the GCEO addressed the delegates at our Dinner Gala hosted in
New York at The River Café, he spoke about “The world Of Champions”
and it became apparent that greatness is never an accident, it comes
through deliberate effort. The 2016 Offshore champions came against
the backdrop of harsh economic environment in our country but still they
managed to excel.
Champions do not wait for conditions to be perfect. In fact it is mischievous
to expect perfect conditions in an imperfect world. the Bible says “He who
observes the wind and waits for all conditions to be favourable will not sow
and he who regards the wind will not reap.”
Growing up in the rural Chimanimani, I never dreamt of one day going on
a cruise, particularly on the Oasis of The Seas, one of the two largest and
most revolutionary cruise ships in the world. The experience was awesome,
fabulous and amazing. Walking into the ship it looked like a huge mall
with everything and I mean everything. The ship is a great and completely
unique piece of innovation.
We thoroughly enjoyed every activity in the ship including visiting the ports
- Cozumel in Mexico, Falmouth in Jamaica and Labadee in Haiti.
Kudos to Old Mutual for coming up with such an exceedingly wonderful
way of recognising and celebrating individuals who would have made
distinct contributions in the success of the organisation.
19
 ONE LUCKY WINNER!
By Otilia Nyamuzihwa
When I first received the news of the Offshore Convention trip, I could not
believe that I was part of the Old Mutual group. When I received the mail,
I read through the mail but somehow I could not pick my husband’s name
on the list. I just thought it was other people going for the trip as usual
and I was envying them, little did I know that I was part of the group, till
my husband hinted to me to check for his name on the list. When I finally
noticed his name believe me I could not believe it because I had never
dreamt of going beyond Southern African boarders.
All I could do was to sing praises unto the Almighty, because had it not
been for Him we could not have made it to be part of the selected group
for the Convention.
The adventure had started, we had to research where we were going so
as to know what was expected as we prepared for the trip, and it was all
about visualising and dreaming.
The events started to unfold when we boarded the plane SAA029 to South
Africa. Upon arrival at OR. Tambo airport, we were given a special warm
welcome by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jonas Mushosho,
who was our host throughout the trip. He advised that the adventure was
starting and our first port of call was the Bidvest Premier Lounge where we
had our snacks as we awaited to board our next flight to New York.
We left South Africa that evening to New York and the trip was a long
one, 16 hours, that was my first experience to travel such a long period in
an aeroplane. We arrived at JF. Kennedy airport in the morning and went
through the necessary immigration process before we embarked on our
final flight to Fort Lauderdale where we were going to board the famous
world’s largest cruise ship, the Oasis of the Seas.
Upon arrival at Fort Lauderdale we went straight ahead to board the
famous ship. I had never seen such an enormous ship, we are used to
our cruise boats at Lake Chivero, Vic Falls and Kariba but the Oasis of the
Seas is one of its kind. I had never dreamt of a ship having all facilities
on-board, it is like a block of flats when its stationery.
Day 1 and Day 2 of the cruise we were at leisure at the sea, exploring all
the facilities on board this iconic ship. It is quite amazing how some people
are creative and innovative. There isn’t anything that is not available on-
board, it is like you are on land whilst the ship is sailing, you will only
realise that the ship is in motion when you look outside and see the water
moving. We had a chance to take a walk and relax in Central Park.
20 We arrived in Mexico our first port of call of our trip on Day 3. We had
a chance to leave the ship and toured the streets of Mexico. We had
a chance to test Mexican food the Guacamole with nachos, it was so
delicious.
Day 4, we were at the sea, enjoying the facilities on-board, the rock
climbing wall and we had a chance to shop from the Royal shops on-
board where there was a super sale of fashion accessories.
We were in Jamaica on Day 5 of our trip, where we toured the streets of
Jamaica and had a chance to taste coconut milk. It is amazing how the
Jamaicans take life at ease. Day 6, we were at Labadee, Haiti, where
we enjoyed relaxing by the beach and the weather was just too hot. We
enjoyed lunch by the beach, jerk chicken, pork chops, it was just delicious.
Back on the ship we had a chance to choose from a variety of styles of
watch gift sets on sale for our loved ones back home at amazing prices. We
also had a chance to view the Zultanite an exclusive and rare gemstone.
We participated in a raffle draw where I won a Zultanite colour changing
gemstone worth US$500. I could not believe it that I won such a unique
price on-board, that was an exciting experience.
Day 7 was the D-day for winding up, the cruise was just amazing, it was so
refreshing such that given an option I did not want to leave so early but we
just had to leave for another adventure that was waiting for us.
After the seven nights aboard the Oasis of the Seas we had to leave for
New York the city that never sleeps. Upon arriving in New York we toured
what was once the tallest building, the Empire of State Building. It was
amazing how we went up 86 floors in a short space of time and we had a
chance to view the city from a bird’s view. I used to wonder why the city
is said to be the city that never sleeps, I had to witness this when we were
coming back from our dinner to the hotel. It was late but you could see
people going about the streets as if it was during day time for it is the city
that never sleeps.
Our last day in New York was the day when the winners were presented
with their awards for the hard work. After our breakfast we went for
shopping at an upmarket shopping mall. After the shopping it was time to
leave for the awards aboard some limousines for the special event. It was
glamourous and thanks to Old Mutual Group for such a gesture. After the
awards ceremony, it was time to leave for home.
The trip was just a memorable one and special thanks to Mr Mushosho
and the Old Mutual group for such a rewarding scheme that encourages
and motivate oneself. I felt like a winner as well. It was such a great honour
to be part of the group, and it is really appreciated. May the Good Lord
bless Mr & Mrs Mushosho and the team. I cannot wait for the next Offshore
Convention.
 OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
THANK YOU FOR AN OVERSEAS HOLIDAY TRIP TO THE CARIBBEAN
By Adeline Murape

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Old Mutual Group for coming up with an amazing employee recognition initiative in the form of the
Stars of Zimbabwe. This year, we were afforded an opportunity to be part of the team, representing Zimbabwe on the offshore convention owing to my
sister’s nomination to this prestigious award.

It was really a wonderful experience breaking the seas to have a tour of a first world country. The cruise ships were state of the art and reflected breath
taking workmanship that instantly caught my admiration. The hospitality from the crew and attendants ushered me into another world of customer service
that I had never experienced. Their service was indeed a befitting icing on the cake for the well-organized offshore convention. Our tour of Mexico and
Jamaica also offered me an opportunity to have a first-hand appreciation of new cultures. Of particular interest is the unforgettable experience I had in
Cozumel Mexico, where the people of Mexico showed passionate hospitality and friendliness in welcoming us.

I really felt that Old Mutual is a great place to work, as there is recognition for excellence which is a natural motivation to anyone. I was inspired by the
royal treatment at the Gala night, WOW; I wish I could go back again! The trip was awesome and indeed a life time experience. On behalf of my family
(the entire clan) a BIG thank you to Old Mutual for making us great. Continue to Do Great Things!

21

Old Mutual has developed a strategy to foster financial
inclusion for local SMEs. As part of this strategy, the Eastgate
Market site was identified for the development of an SME
Centre. The project was officially pioneered in October with
a ground breaking ceremony at the Metro Centre, situated
in Harare Central Business District. This space will then be
converted into an SME centre. On completion, the project
will have a lettable space of 15,000 square metres, bringing
relief to an estimated 20,000 vendors who currently ply their
trade at various informal sites across the city.
Speaking at the ceremony, Old Mutual Group Chief Executive
Officer, Mr Jonas Mushosho stated that, the development
would not only improve the competitiveness of SMEs, but also
enable them to meaningfully contribute to the development
of the Zimbabwean economy.
The project, which is set to be completed by 2018, will result
in the first such centre in southern Africa. Old Mutual saw
a business opportunity to develop the Eastgate SME Centre
specifically for SMEs and the informal sector.
“The Eastgate SME Centre will be the first in Sub Saharan
Africa. We foresee our regional neighbours frequenting this
22
OLD MUTUAL
UNVEILS
SME
CENTRE
place to explore and understand this phenomenon” he said.
The growth of the informal sector over the past years has
naturally presented real estate investors with an opportunity
to design and construct suitable working space for the SME
and informal sector of the economy.
“Old Mutual is aware that lack of convenient premises and
access to markets are some of the major issues inhibiting the
desired growth of the SME sector. It is against this background
that the Eastgate SME Centre was conceived with a specific
aim of addressing challenges faces by SMEs”.
Out of a total lettable space of 15,000m2 the Eastgate SME
Centre will provide up to 2,000m2 of refrigeration space
for rural farmers that will help preserve their produce and
enhance their livelihoods. In this instance embracing financial
inclusion means enabling marginalised communities to trade
their farm produce and wares, converting them to cash and
therefore to sustenance.
“The Eastgate SME Centre will be the first in Sub Saharan
Africa. We foresee our regional neighbours frequenting this
place to explore and understand this phenomenon” he said.
 Old Mutual
brings joy to
ZVISHAVANE

Old Mutual first launched Greenzone in 2013 in Harare. The
Green Zone brings together comprehensive financial advice,
investment and banking expertise of Old Mutual Zimbabwe
Limited Companies under one roof. The Zvishavane service
centre is the third branch to be opened. It is a mini version of
the bigger Green Zones that were opened in Harare in 2013
and more recently in Bulawayo in April.
received from this community. Today we are saying ‘thank you’,
for your loyalty and commitment to Old Mutual.”
The Green Zone concept is part of a strategy by Old Mutual
Zimbabwe Limited to bring closer cooperation and synergy
among Group Companies.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Old Mutual Group

Chief Executive Officer, Jonas Mushosho, said, “The successes
and challenges we encountered have helped create a strong
bond between Old Mutual and its clients. It is in recognition
of this intrinsic relationship that Old Mutual is investing into
world class customer service centres such as the one we are
commissioning today.”

The Zvishavane Mini Green Zone houses CABS, a wholly

owned Old Mutual subsidiary, and the rest of our business units
under one roof. Prior to the opening of the new service center,
Old Mutual was represented by its banking subsidiary, CABS,
in Zvishavane.

“Our investment in this mining town was well thought out – it

is in recognition of the support Old Mutual has consistently

23
 PARTING IS SUCH A SWEET SORRO
PARTING IS SUCH A
SWEET SORROW
By Laiza Musesengwa OMSS

How time flies! It was just like yesterday when I came to

Old Mutual as a new student on attachment, but it is now
time to say Good-bye.

It is devoid of an instinct of hesitation that the mainstream of Zimbabweans

is well aware of the current economic situation and rate of unemployment in
our beloved country. Every year, University students are graduating, hoping to
grab opportunities of being formally employed in well established companies.

I am greatly indebted to Old Mutual for considering me as one of the few

students on attachment in August 2015. I count myself as blessed since
this was an opportunity that every student desired to have. The sentiment
of walking into one of the country’s largest financial institutions (popularly
known as the Green Giant) was an emotion I could not weigh against any
other. It was a feeling of enormous self-importance and admiration. My
pride was fuelled by being related to a very well thought-of organization
and my honour came from knowing that I had been given an opportunity
that countless of graduates in the nation would only dream of. The feeling
of admiration hastily brought to remembrance a quote by Albert Einstein
which states, “Out of clutter find simplicity, from discord find
harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies OPPORTUNITY.” This
was in deed an amazing opportunity for me during these difficult economic
situations.

I recall Mr Gerald Chinogara, (OMLAC Marketing Executive) saying, “Laiza
you have come to work not learn” and indeed it was on the Job training not
work related learning. To be frank, this instilled fear in me, but I was driven by
the fact that someone just like me had pulled through, so definitely I would
also make it. I am grateful to the Group Marketing team for always being
there for me and supporting me. Albert Einstein once wrote, “Strive not
to be a success, but rather to be of value” Yes, I am pleased I
was successful during my industrial attachment but am over joyed that I was
also of value to the Group Marketing team. I can say I was more than just a
student attaché, and this has moulded me to become someone responsible,
confident and committed in everything I do be it work related or personal.
Working in Group Marketing gave me a lot of opportunities such as travelling,
participating in events, meeting new people within various industries.
This stimulated me to dream bigger and always think in other terms. I
remember at one event Mr.Mushosho saying, ‘’I like young people, people
who have energy , who have dreams , people who wake up in the morning
saying I want to be someone in life.” This was my greatest motivation knowing
that as a young lady, I was here for a purpose that is building my dream to
become not just a marketer but a valuable one.
Being a part of OMSS Marketing also gave me an opportunity to work with
almost all of the Old Mutual Business Units and this helped me to have in-
depth familiarity with their products and services. This helped improve my
stakeholder management skills. As someone who is an introvert, at first I
always found it difficult engaging with people, but today I can openly say I
am now perfect at creating relationships with people. Thanks to my Industrial
Supervisor Tendai Mutseyekwa for nurturing me to become this young lady
who can now relate to all different types of people.
24
I always found it hard trying to convince people, but I remember him saying,
“Laiza always use your diplomatic skills to convince and win over people.
”I am pretty sure the OMSS finance team can openly agree with me that I was
like a bug to them until I got what I wanted. Because of him, I have learnt a
lot of life lessons from my stay at Old Mutual. No man is a landmass. People
will always achieve more when they put their minds together.
I am grateful for the experience and relationships I have developed at Old
Mutual. Like any journey that one embarks on, there are ups and downs as
well as unforeseen situations which may arise. I did have my reasonable
share of ups and a duo of downs. This takes me to a quote by Albert Einstein
which says, “Anyone who has never made a mistake has
never tried anything new.” The hurdles I faced helped me to bear
my problem solving cap knowing there is no success without problems and I
believe we all learn from our slipups. I was able to pick various lessons from
the challenges I stumbled upon. Because of this, I have been shaped into
a young woman who is geared up to tolerate the real world with my head
thought up far above the ground.
Melody Manful said, “Good byes are sad, but they are temporary, because
as hellos end with goodbyes, so will goodbyes start with hellos.” With these
words I say, “Till we meet again thy Old Mutual friends and Colleagues,
you were an awesome team that anyone else would have been proud to be
associated
with.”
Thank you Old Mutual!
Old Mutual Graduate Trainee Programme
Graduation 2016

As part of our Responsible Business culture, we continue to employ and nurture graduate trainees offering them the
best possible skills training in the two year training course. This year Old Mutual celebrated its first graduate trainees on 22 July by
holding a graduation ceremony to mark the end of the program and the continuation of their success.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony Mr Mushosho stated, “Be determined in your life and be self-restrained.” All 26
graduates did exceedingly well during their time at Old Mutual and displayed growth and
maturity within the 2 year time frame.

This is what some of the trainees had to say upon graduating:

K.Gondo - “It is commendable that we have reached this far and we certainly have the bragging rights, we deserve.
It is important to note that these are simply medals we have received on our way to greatness, but we should not stop
there. Successful completion of our traineeship only shows us that we have it in us to become the leaders we’ve been
trained to be for the past two years.”
Munashe - “We have been privileged to be part of the green giant and this has provided an excellent platform to
start our careers as well as invaluable wealth of knowledge and understanding of the financial services industry.”
Ngoni - “I want to thank the Management, Mentors, HR, for having such an intellectual programme to prove our worth
and skills to the organization. We are value additions, that l am confident of.”
Liana – “In retrospect the Graduate Training experience was life changing, filled with both good and overwhelming
encounters that we all greatly cherish. The curriculum granted us the chance to develop our strengths and pick out our
weaknesses within the corporate sector.”

We would like to wish our graduate trainees the best of success in all of their future endeavours.

25
 Angelic singing at the
Old Mutual first ever
National Choral Festival
It was a colourful affair at the Celebration Center, in Harare,
in Zimbabwe where Old Mutual hosted the first ever National
choral festival. Due to the overwhelming participation
from local choir groups, Zimbabwe was weaned to be a
standalone region.
Speaking about the festival, Group CEO, Mr Jonas
Mushosho said, “Choral music plays an important role in
the lives of many communities. It is part of the rich fabric of
our African nation and it helps to build bridges.”
“Old Mutual is a proud title sponsor of this
prestigious event, as we continually strive
to support the great communities where we
operate. It is also aligned to our mission of
helping to cultivate excellence and enabling
positive futures.”
Indeed people came in their numbers supporting the various
choir groups. The world class venue, Harare’s Celebration
Center reflected the stature and uplifting spirit of the Old
Mutual National Choir Festival.
Chitungwiza Harmony Singers marketing manager, Peter
Thole, welcomed the move for Zimbabwe to be a stand
26 alone region and described it as an honour for the nation to
host the prestigious festival.
“The move to be a stand alone region is much appreciated
as it was overdue, as we have been lobbying for it for the
past 10 years,” he said.
Some of the groups that competed for honours at the
festival where Midlands State University Choir, Victory
Chorale Choir, Spiritoso Choir, Dangamvura Old Students
Association, Bulawayo Choristers, Masvingo Vibratos Choir
and Heavenly Praises Choir.
Chitungwiza Harmony Singers came out tops scooping the
best choir award. Below is the list of the winning choirs that
will compete in the finals in South Africa.
TABLE OF WINNERS
NAME OF CHOIR POSITION
Chitungwiza Harmony Singers Winners
Heavenly Praise Chorus Runner Up
Spiritoso Chorale 2nd Runner Up
The prestigious event started on Monday 15 August 2016 Beitbridge. The final was a well contested affair but surprise
and ended on Thursday 18 August 2016. Last year’s package St Mary’s Beitbridge came out tops, being crowned
champions Marist Nyanga were bubbling with confidence the National Champions.
and looking forward to defend their title. Newcomers to the
tournament such as Lundi, Kuwadzana 2
and St Mary’s Beitbridge were also out
to make their presence felt.

The top three winners from each

province converged at Rest Haven
retreat, making them a total of 30. Just
before the quiz sessions started, the
participating students and teachers all
took part in sporting activities. The sports
included volleyball and soccer and gave
a chance to the teachers and students to
mix, mingle and socialize.

In the quiz first round, the schools were

pooled in groups of three. The best
two automatically qualified to the next
round.

It proved to be a tourney of major upsets with favourites

like Kutama and St lgnatius being knocked out in the first THE FINAL RESULT WAS AS FOLLOWS:
round. The 20 remaining schools were then seeded into five 1. St Marys Beitbridge
groups of four, with the top two from each session qualifying 2. Hartzell
to the next round. It was also the stage where defending 3. Goromonzi
champions Marist Nyanga’s road came to an end, with St 4. Kuwadzana 2
Faith also following the exit door.
For winning the tournament, St Mary’s Beitbridge took away
five laptops. Hartzell the runners up, won tablets while, the
The 10 schools were pooled in three groups with the first second runners up Goromonzi walked away with smart
session of that round having 4 schools, and the remaining phones.
two groups having three schools each. Only four schools
would manage to get into the National Final.
The four schools that made it into the National Final
were Kuwadzana 2 , Hartzell, Goromonzi and St Mary’s 27
 Old Mutual again emerged as the best exhibitor
OLD MUTUAL in the Insurance Category at the recently held
2016 Midlands Show. This year’s Midlands Show
DID IT AGAIN AT THE Society was held at the Gweru Show Grounds
from 28 July to 31 July. For the record, Old

2016 MIDLANDS
Mutual has won an three Awards at the Midlands
show since its first showcase in 2012.

SHOW SOCIETY The Midlands show is Zimbabwe’s third largest

exhibition show after the ZITF and Harare
Agricultural Show. This year’s show had about
130 exhibitors compared to 100 of last year. The
Guest of Honor was the Indian Ambassador to
Zimbabwe, Mr. Masakui Rungsung.

The theme for the show was, “Enhancing Economic

Growth in a Dynamic Environment”. All Exhibitors
were tasked to support their presentations and
displays in accord with the theme.

The “On The Money” programme was highly in

accordance with the theme as it helps improve
individual’s financial literacy levels in this harsh
economic situation the country is facing.

Exhibition judging was held on 28 July and

the Old Mutual presenters dwelt on the vast
Old Mutual services, including the Responsible
Business initiatives and the “On The Money”
training to a panel of Judges. This year, the stand’s
ambience also improved and it is with no doubt
this contributed greatly to the overall winning.

Four business units were represented at this year’s

show, OMLAC, OMUT, CABS and OMICO.
Devoid of a tail of uncertainty, this platform has
attested to be valuable as evidenced by the sales
of mostly the Savings Plan, Funeral Plan, Unit
Trust Investments and the high levels of traffic that
visited our stand.

These platforms are highly important as they do

not only increase product awareness but also
brand awareness at large. Some people fail
to differentiate between Old Mutual and First
Mutual hence the need to profile our brand. The
exhibitions are an effective channel of bringing
light to the people considering the numbers that
normally attend shows.

28
 JOB SWAP
Xolani Ndhlovu joined CABS in September 2011 during which time the building society was diversifying its mortgage
lending business into commercial banking. This is the period in which the society was also taking full advantage of new
opportunities created by dollarization of the economy and solving newer problems faced by customers operating in a
multi-currency environment. Xolani’s role at CABS was a perfect fit for this period, coming in to head the team that was
to establish foreign exchange trading, a business line that is not only relatively complex but new to the majority of the
500+ employees of CABS.

Xolani’s strategic approach to serving customers well from the start was that of educating and training the core trading
team and the foot soldiers that he works with in the form of retail banking staff around the country and ultimately the
person who matters the most - the customer. Due to his hardwork, he was chosen as a representative of Old Mutual
Africa for the 2016 Job Swap in London.
29
 How did you feel when you were nominated
as the Job swap representative for Old Mutual
Zimbabwe/Africa?
My colleague Michelle had informed me that she had
nominated me as an eligible candidate for the competition. She
called me one afternoon and congratulated me on winning the
position. Initially, I could not believe that I had been chosen. As
unexpected as it was, I was excited and truly honoured.
Upon landing in London, what was your initial
experience?
I had been to London a few times before but this time it felt so
different. Everything had been carefully choreographed from
the airport, thanks to the incredibly efficient organising team.
As the only representative from my country, I travelled alone
and landed a tad later than other swappers from around
the world. I got 5 star treatment from the chauffer
at Heathrow to check in at the plush 5-star
Grange St Paul’s hotel in central London.
I was delighted to meet the other
swappers from around the world.
My first evening was punctuated
by a beautiful dinner at a Greek
restaurant. I must add that the
energy was so high from the
get-go. What was only a week’s
experience felt like three months’
worth. The program was intense
and concentrated.
The Job swap experience in its
entirety must have been intense if
you state that it was focusing on
elements that could have been
covered over a 3 month period.
What was the programme like? And
what activities did you do as a group
that you found helpful?
The programme was split between serious fun and serious
business. As the job swappers from the south, we all got up
close with the UK customer teams to learn from their customer
service architecture, culture and systems. Every one of us would
spend a day with departments that were closest to their line of
business. I spent time with trading teams in the Wealth business
in Southampton and Asset management teams in London.
I spent a good deal of time with Group Treasury in London
as well. The British markets are very different, fast paced and
sophisticated. Experiencing corporate London was greatly mind
blowing. I picked up a couple of takeaways from my experience
that I will share with my colleagues in our business. The pick
of the lessons has to be how the UK businesses leverage on
technology to create incredible customer experiences. They
also make their customer teams feel special – and they are
some of the coolest human beings I have ever met in my life in
the corporate world. Simple initiatives such as skip-level teas
can be replicated in our markets. We also had tonnes of fun.
30 If I were to pick my best three…it’d have to be the wine-tasting
and the conversations that followed; the afternoon tea bus
tour of the City of London and exploring the Titanic museum
in Southampton.
What are some of the key points that you picked
up on and would be willing to implement for Old
Mutual Zimbabwe?
Some of the key points that I noted were in the following areas:
• Customer Service Strategy
• Human resource practices
• Tooling and structure of call centres
• The STARS recognition program
• Magical Moments for customers
• Customer centricity in management of product life cycles
As Old Mutual, we have pretty smart people in marketing
departments, and they go all out to understand our customers.
I hope that I can help our businesses through the contacts that
I made in the “North” to improve some aspects of our
customer service. I should emphasise that I think this
is a great opportunity for our businesses to be
investing in technology. Mordern technology
has broken down boundaries. The
modern consumer has access to
other markets around the world from
their palmtop for example. The bulk
of our new employees and middle
class customers across our businesses
in Africa are primarily going to be
the millennial generation in the next
few years. This is the opportune time
to be innovating and leveraging
on technology as this generation
is naturally affined to technology.
Excellent customer service delivered
through great teams of employees is
a great differentiator especially in our
particular markets in Zimbabwe.
Do you think that the other members of the
team learnt something from you?
Absolutely! It is amazing how cross-pollination of personal
experiences benefited others. We all operate in different
countries and markets, so we all had something unique and
helpful to share. I specialise in trading, mainly global markets
in an economy that has the USD as both foreign and domestic
currency. That’s interesting. Further, Zimbabwe is no stranger
in international media usually for the not so good reasons.
Naturally, my fellow-swappers and hosts had tones of questions
about our markets. And I had the pleasure of sharing my
experiences the best way I know. I was proud too to represent
our Africa businesses alongside my colleague from Kenya.
In sum, the job swap was a phenomenal experience; one of
those that don’t come so often in one’s life. I went, I saw, I
learnt, I grew! I was inspired to go back to my country and use
my experiences to influence improvements in customer service
and by extension enable positive futures for our customers. That
is the mission of the Old Mutual group. That is my personal
mission too.
 OMICO
RUZHOWA/UTHANGO
Old Mutual together with technical partner, Blue Marble
Micro insurance launched a drought insurance product
aimed at small holder farmers in November 2016.
Blue Marble is owned by eight international insurance
companies, with Old Mutual being the partner in Africa.
Speaking at the launch of the drought insurance product,
Old Mutual Zimbabwe Group Chief Executive Officer,
Jonas Mushosho, said small holder farmers played a
significant role in providing food security for the country.
“The importance of agriculture in Zimbabwe cannot be
overemphasized. Agriculture oils the wheels of industry
and commerce, as well as providing food security
for millions of people in Zimbabwe and the southern
African region.
“It is also known that Zimbabwe has an agro based
economy, with small scale farmers playing a significant
role. It is these farmers who will help Zimbabwe reclaim
its position as the breadbasket of SADC.
“The micro insurance product we are launching today
is an innovative solution that provides insurance against
seasonal droughts. The product offers protection
through farmers’ largest investment that is inputs such
as seeds and fertilizer,” said Mushosho.
The product offers the following benefits, among others:
• A low-cost and accessible insurance solution to
protect against uncertainty of timing and amount of
rainfall
• A simple and seamless customer experience through
their mobile phone
• Valuable farming education based on climate
data to inform planting decisions and ultimately
build resilience
The micro insurance product is targeted at farmers using
one or two hectares of land, primarily to grow maize
for subsistence in order to feed themselves and their
immediate families.
The focus on these farmers demonstrates Old Mutual’s
inclusive approach to fostering economic development
in Zimbabwe.
31
 OLD MUTUAL
WILIKA PROGRAMME 2016
By Starben Manyowa – OMSS Learning Manager
The name Wilika has become very visible in the Old
Mutual community and for Zimbabwe, 2016 was
another successful year.
Wilika means to lead, conduct, direct or derive. It is a
Leadership Development programme that targets from
junior managers to executives.
The 2016 Wilika programme saw the largest group
of graduates. A total of 99 people made it through
the leadership development programme. The group
comprised 31 females and 68 males.
The popularity of the Wilika programme comes from
the relevance of learning to practical business needs.
There is a growing testimony of the observable positive
behavior changes on all those who have gone through
the programme.
Each year we try and focus on current business
requirements and tailor make the programme to
address those needs.
In 2016 the focus was on:
• Self Leadership and Insights Discovery
• Lean Leadership
32
• Customer Masterclass
• Collective Agility
We started with “hello my name is and this is what I do”
and ended with sharing, laughing and learning.
Reflecting over the past six months, we feel privileged
to be on this journey; the dominant emotion from us
all is that we are inspired by our facilitators and their
experiences. We truly appreciate their wisdom and
effort they put into making the training very personal.
We look forward to the future, knowing we will be the
movers and shakers in Old Mutual and our society at
large for the indefinite future. – Faithful Gunda, OMSS
Legal.
We Malawians have benefited a lot from this course.
Among others, we have learnt about self-leadership,
lean management, problem solving, VUCA, among
others. Before attending this course, we might have
held high degrees, but if our attitudes were bad, we
were nothing. This Wilika course has really transformed
us and we will no longer be the same because it has
been an eye opener. – Spencer Maiden, Old Mutual
Malawi.

100 days already! It’s been a thrilling ride and an incredible
experience as a member of the Old Mutual Zimbabwe family. It’s hard
to grasp that today is already my 100th day in the office.
In this short journey thus far, I have learnt a lot and encountered some
very good friends, brothers and sisters. I am truly blessed to be part of
this family. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity and welcoming
me so warmly.
Since my return, I have had to face some tough questions, including:
“Why on earth would you come back to Zimbabwe? Have you not
heard about the bond notes? Did you not see what happened at
hyperinflation?” My short answer has always been “God has allowed
me to see what the eyes cannot see”.
“It’s not that I don’t fear, but fear has never
stopped me”. I have allowed God to lead
my path, and He has never failed me. I have
joined a business that is in good hands and
admirable leadership, the future is extremely
bright and I am so thankful to the OMZIL
leadership for allowing me the opportunity to
be part of this incredible family.
In my 16 years in the diaspora, I never met
such a dedicated and hard-working people
as I have seen in Zimbabwe. You only need
to walk through the streets of this country to
witness the resilience of people; you only need
to drive around the morning rush to see school
children in school uniform investing in the
future; you only need to visit evening colleges
to witness adults empowering themselves.
When you have been around the world, you
will know this is uniquely special. Today might look gloomy, but the
wise are equipping themselves for a brighter tomorrow. The best
capital we need is never financial, but rather human capital, and we
have that in Zimbabwe and we will be a shining star again.
I was blessed to inherit a competent and excellent OMLAC team.
In these few 100 days, I have witnessed the clinching of the biggest
APE deal the Life Office has won since dollarization. I am thankful to
Bright, David and Loreen and their teams for excellent team work to
close this deal. I love you guys for delaying this deal until my coming.
I have seen Esnath and Susan align our processes and the amount
of energy and drive in these ladies is beyond description. I have seen
Margaret lead her team to some incredible stuff in the Southern region
MY FIRST
1 0 0 D A Y S
By Tassius Chigariro – OMLAC Managing Director
in a year that’s been personally tough for her, and also the humorous
Gerald (who I call my left hand man); he never runs out of energy.
These are true ambassadors for the company.
I have been encouraged by Moses taking blows on behalf of the
company and still energised for the next morning. A few months back,
Lovemore showed me a sorrowful AOP with $15m looking impossible,
now he walks around everywhere with his great smile expecting north
of $20m.
Above all, I am very thankful to my right hand man, Rueben, who is
the central piece of this success and has allowed me to settle well and
guided me through. I shouldn’t forget my buddy Shepherd, who has
effectively inducted me.
We have an incredible pipeline of future
leaders who I see around as I take my
daily walks on the floor. With the help
of John and Angie we look to nurture
these amazing talents who will help us
maintain this company at a level our
forefathers remain proud.
Now that I have completed my 100 days,
I am not a newbie anymore, but I will
continue to learn, I also look forward to
adding a hand to your efforts in servicing
our clients. Our clients need us as much
as we need them, as our forefathers
articulated, we are our clients certain
friend in uncertain times.
Roughly 20 years ago, I recall trying to
show my father how to set up a VCR and I couldn’t understand why
he couldn’t get it. Incidentally I find myself in a position where my
daughter was explaining to me how to set up Netflix and I couldn’t
get it. It then dawned on me that I have become my father. One of
the most powerful animals that once existed was a Dinosaur, but it’s
gone. Why is it extinct, did it run out of food, was his hunted out?
No, it failed to adapt. I like it when our GCEO often challenges me
to put on my innovation hat, which I should really never take off,
remembering that “it’s not the strongest specie that will survive, nor
the most intelligent, but that which can adapt”.
I look forward to seeing all of you out there flying the green flag, I love
you all, God bless you, thank you so much, hasta la vista!
33
 VUMBA
MOUNTAIN RUN

The 2016 Old Mutual Vumba Mountain Run saw a

diverse crowd of newbies and elite runners.

It was another successful race, which was well attended by

runners and the Vumba community at large. Old Mutual
continues to encourage a culture of health and wellness
among communities through marathon runs held annually
across the country.

The races also provide a platform where professional

athletes can compete and polish up their skills for tougher
races and have seen many participate in the Comrades
and Two Oceans in South Africa. The Old Mutual Vumba
Mountain run is characterised by steep undulating terrain
that provide arguably the most gruelling test for the
runners.

The antidote for this, however, is a serene inner peace

brought about the Vumba’s natural beauty that runners
described as most relaxing.

Runners expressed satisfaction at the 2016 event, citing

the presence of clear markings and excellent marshalling.

“This year I managed to go through my race without

getting lost and the water points were at the most
convenient of sites – it was a great run, even though I did
not manage to win. Next year I will be faster,” said Mutsa
Manyere, one of the participants.

Manicaland Athletics Board Chairman, Joshua Matume,

said they appreciated the sponsorship provided by Old
Mutual and were equally pleased with the community
participation and the lease of life the event brings to the
eastern gateway city.

34
 SWEET VICTORY
FOR OLD MUTUAL
BY TITUS T SANANGURAI – OMLAC
Old Mutual boasts a strong line of athletes in a variety of
sporting activities. One of our strongest teams is the football
team that continues to do us proud as it boasts a hoard of
maestros
Every year our team competes in the Harare Insurance
Football League. The league brings together players,
staff and their families and sponsors alike for an electric
football competition. This year’s tournament was held on
12 November 2016 at ZB Bank Sports Club in Vainona
and some of the teams included First Mutual Life, Nicoz
Diamond, ZB Life, Minerva Risk Advisors, Cimas, NSSA and
Baobab Reinsurance.
Old Mutual showed true sportsmanship and the team shone
on the field, topping their round robin Group 4 where they
went on to beat NSSA in the semi-finals 2-1 on post- match
penalties.
The finals lived up to the hype as Old Mutual faced it’s long
lost rival, ZB Life, in the final. It was a tense match as Old
Mutual had minimal possession in the first half but came
back with a bang in the second half, buoyed by a vociferous
band of supporters who intimidated ZB Life to submission.
We equalized to send the final to another nerve-wrecking
penalty shootout.
Urged on by a vociferous crowd cheering, complimented by
calm headed penalty takers, Old Mutual comfortably won
the penalty shootout 5 - 3.
35
 FESTIVE SEASON
SECURITY
As we go into the festive season, the following tips may
help you not become a target of crimes like robberies,
thefts, smash and grabs:
CARJACKING, SMASH AND GRABS
WHAT HAPPENS?
• Normally occurs at night at traffic-light controlled
intersections
• Target high-class vehicles and mostly lone lady drivers
• Smash passenger windows shove hands in car to grab
any items in plain view
• Some cases end up with carjacking where vehicle is
forcibly taken
WHAT TO DO
• Upon approaching red traffic lights slow down- reach
intersection as lights turn green
• If you are to stop, stay alert, keep your car in gear,
doors locked, windows rolled up
• If someone tries to get in your car while you are
stationary - drive away quickly
• Should you be trailed, don’t head home but drive to
the nearest police station, open store or business for
help.
• When stopping at intersections, leave enough room
between your car and the one in front to avoid being
boxed in
• Park and walk in open and well-lit areas
THEFT FROM CARS
Theft from cars is fast becoming a common phenomenon
in the public shopping space.
WHAT HAPPENS?
• Gate remotes are being used to jam alarm signals,
leaving vehicles unlocked
TIPS
• Lady-driven vehicles carrying fancy cosmetics, phones
and cash are targeted
• As a motorist presses the lock remote, the criminal
also presses the jamming device
• With the 433MHz alarm signal blocked, the car doors
remain in unlocked mode
• Motorists walk away oblivious that the car doors are
not locked
WHAT TO DO
• It is important to physically check if one’s car doors
are locked before walking away
• Absence of an audible beeping sound or a single
hazard lights flash suggests an unsuccessful arming
and possible signal jamming
• Don’t leave any valuables in plain sight in the car-
rather lock them in the boot
OTHER SECURITY TIPS
• Beware of suspicious looking people, including
women, at robots and intersections
• Do your festive season shopping well in advance to
avoid the risks associated with the festive rush
• Always wear your seatbelt, obey the road rules, and
don’t drink and drive
• When travelling, remember the vehicle kit and
licencing requirements (police checks)
• Have the lights at home switched on and off at
appropriate times every day when away
• A basic intruder alarm system at the residence should
deter, delay and deny breach
Your personal safety awareness should not take a
holiday. Implement these simple security strategies and
frustrate the criminals this festive season. Wishing you a
Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2017!