Zimbabwe has appointed Dr Dennis Ngabirano, the founder of Uganda’s Sumz snacks brand, as its honorary consul to Uganda to strengthen trade and investment ties between the two countries.
Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister, Prof Amon Murwira, handed Ngabirano his appointment letter, according to a statement posted by the ministry on X.
The ministry said Ngabirano would help connect Zimbabwean businesses with East African markets, with a focus on agriculture, pharmaceuticals and mineral processing.
It linked the appointment to Zimbabwe’s efforts to expand regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
An honorary consul represents a country’s interests in a host country, often while maintaining a separate professional or business career.
The ministry cited Ngabirano’s private-sector experience and business networks across the Great Lakes region as assets that could help Zimbabwean producers and exporters reach new markets.
Ngabirano welcomed the appointment and thanked Zimbabwe’s leadership.
“I thank H.E President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Prof Dr Amon Murwira the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the opportunity bestowed upon me to serve the Republic of Zimbabwe,” he wrote.
Ngabirano founded Psalms Food Industries Limited, the company behind Sumz, in 2010. The Ugandan manufacturer produces potato crisps, plantain chips, baked snacks and peanut butter. It also operates the Afrikan Harvest and Krunchables brands.
