In the serene, granite-studded hills of Mutoko in Mashonaland East province, a quiet revolution has been unfolding for decades.
Marrybar Bvunzawabaya, affectionately known as Mai Madzeka, has redefined rural entrepreneurship with a business empire that stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation.
While many entrepreneurs gravitate toward urban centres, Mai Madzeka has chosen to root her ventures in her rural homeland, transforming Mutoko and Mudzi districts into bustling hubs of hospitality and commerce.
For many within the district and beyond, her name is synonymous with resilience, business acumen, and an unwavering commitment to her roots.
Registered under March Trading as the holding company, her enterprises — Madzeka Nite Club, March Motel, and Nyamakwere Hotel — stand as testaments to what vision and perseverance can achieve, even in the most unexpected places.
Born in Shurugwi and educated in Chikomba before pursuing advanced studies in Harare, Mai Madzeka’s academic credentials include a diploma in Secretarial Studies from Harare Polytechnic and a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing — qualifications that have undoubtedly contributed to her success.
Her journey into business was not a straight path paved with ease.
Together with her late husband, Charles "Dzekaz" Bvunzawabaya, she started from humble savings, gradually expanding their ventures through sheer determination.
“The tragic passing of Charles in 2002 could have derailed our dream, but I can safely say I managed to rise to the challenge, steering the business through Zimbabwe’s turbulent economic landscape,” she said.
“I guess it is this ability to adapt and innovate that has cemented my current status as a trailblazer in this part of the country.”
And Mai Madzeka particularly attributes a good part of her growth to challenges saying: “It is then that your mind is always on ‘toes’ as you strategise and seek alternative options to extricate yourself from tight spots.”
One of the biggest hurdles she recalls was losing their entire stock—and their trusted truck driver—in a devastating accident.
“We had just opened March Motel at Nyamapanda, and that loss almost crippled us. But giving up was never an option,” she said.
Today, her business empire employs over 50 people, making her one of the largest single employers in the district. Local farmers, too, have benefited, as her establishments source fresh produce directly from them, ensuring a steady market for their goods.
Soft-spoken yet commanding respect, Mai Madzeka embodies a rare blend of compassion and shrewd business acumen.
Her empathetic nature endears her to employees and clients alike, while her strategic mind ensures the continued growth of her enterprises.
Those who know her describe her as “soft as wool” yet possessing a “razor-sharp mind” that has the ability to navigate economic turbulence and emerge stronger with each wave.
And what’s the working day in the life of this successful businesswoman like?
“Like everyone else in formal employment, I start work at 8am to attend to the various chores associated with the management of the business,” Mai Madzeka said.
“As overseer, I supervise staff, inflows and outflows, ensuring that statutory obligations such as subscriptions to institutions like Zimra and Nssa are taken care of.”
Despite her demanding schedule as director of March Trading, Mai Madzeka understands the importance of balance.
She organises community events such as Valentine’s Day celebrations, musical shows and beauty pageants at Nyamakwere Hotel while taking time off twice a year for family vacations.
A devout Christian, she also finds solace in regular church attendance and beyond the world of hospitality, she is also dedicated to philanthropy, and a champion of community upliftment.
For instance, she has donated cattle for milk to Mother of Peace orphanage, funded the education of disadvantaged children, and served on various community boards.
Her secret to success? “Forget superstition and work hard. The best prescription is honesty. You need to satisfy employees, pay suppliers on time, and maintain a good relationship with your financiers,” she said.
Mai Madzeka's story is more than just a business success — it’s an inspiration for women across Zimbabwe, particularly those in rural areas. In a world where the girl child is often placed last in matters of inheritance and opportunity, she is living proof that perseverance shatters ceilings.
And in an era where women are now gradually being celebrated as leaders and change-makers, the prominent Mutoko business woman stands out as a shining example of what is possible when passion meets perseverance.
Her story inspires not only women in rural areas but anyone striving to make a difference in their communities.
“I would love to see my life embody the very essence of International Women’s Day commemorations — reminding all of the power and potential of women to be leaders and change-makers, whether in politics, business, or society.
“I not only want to run business enterprises, but to also redefine what’s possible for women in business,” she said.
When social scientist John Gerzema coined the statement: “Feminine skills are the operating system of the 21st century,” could he not have had women in the mould Mai Madzeka in mind?
As she continues to grow her empire, one thing remains clear: the heart of her success is not in a bustling city, but right where her story began — in the heart of rural Zimbabwe.
