Golf Zone sat down with Reginald Chapfunga, chief executive of Diplomat, to discuss golf, diplomacy, and more.
Question: What inspired you to establish the Diplomat of the Year Awards in Zimbabwe?
Answer: I founded the Awards in 2012 to formally honour the exceptional contributions of diplomats serving in Zimbabwe.
It began with a desire to appreciate their hard work in development, diplomacy, charity, and building international goodwill—often outside official government channels.
Q: How do you perceive the impact of the awards on Zimbabwean society and international relations?
A: The awards have evolved into more than a ceremonial event. They are now a platform for socio-economic engagement, helping ambassadors and diplomats promote trade, investment and cultural exchange.
It’s a unique interface between government, business, civil society, and foreign missions.
Q: How have you seen the Awards grow since 2012, and what drives that growth?
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A: The event has grown from modest beginnings into a major annual fixture.
To date, 155 ambassadors from 25 diplomatic missions have been honoured.
The events have drawn over 3,500 guests from government, business, media, and diplomacy. This growth is driven by professionalism, consistency, strong partnerships and impactful messaging on trade and development.
Q: As publisher of “The Diplomat” magazine, how do you see its role in promoting diplomatic and trade relations?
A: The magazine nurtures citizen diplomacy while bridging diplomacy, business, civil society, and media.
It serves as a platform for storytelling, development dialogue, and trade advocacy—amplifying Zimbabwe’s potential to both local and global audiences.
Q: What challenges do you face in organising events like Diplomat Golf Day or climate talks?
A: Major challenges include securing consistent sponsorship, coordinating high-profile stakeholders and maintaining policy relevance — especially when issues like climate change require depth and follow-up action.
Q: How do the awards recognise contributions to Zimbabwe’s development?
A: They spotlight diplomats who facilitate charity projects, community engagement, and support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — ranging from healthcare and education to trade-led empowerment and climate resilience.
Q: What are your future plans for the Awards and other events?
A: We plan to expand regional outreach beyond Harare, deepen thematic dialogues (eg, climate, technology), and integrate youth-led platforms that connect diplomacy with entrepreneurship and the SDGs.
Q: How do you incorporate climate change discussions into your events, and why is that important?
A: Our annual themes increasingly focus on climate change. For example, in 2018, we positioned climate action at the core of diplomacy and development.
These forums raise public awareness, encourage policy dialogue, and highlight diplomatic leadership in climate resilience.
Q: Tell us about your involvement in music promotions and how it aligns with your other activities.
A: Beyond diplomacy, we promote cultural diplomacy through music and arts programming.
We collaborate with musicians and artists to bring people together, build community and enrich cultural engagement.
Q: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs looking to make a difference?
A: Be purpose-driven, socially minded, and collaborative.
Focus on impact, partnerships, and scaling local innovations to meet community needs. Use platforms like trade forums, media, and cultural festivals to amplify your voice.
Q: What is your vision for Zimbabwe’s future in diplomacy, trade and social entrepreneurship?
A: I envision Zimbabwe as a hub of dynamic diplomacy, a magnet for trade and investment, and a pioneer in social entrepreneurship — where citizens, diplomats and the private sector work together to co-create lasting, inclusive development.
