NetOne Dismisses Rumours Over CEO's Absence, Says Mushanawani on Approved Annual Leave

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare

State-owned mobile network operator NetOne has dismissed speculation circulating on social media over the absence of its Group Chief Executive Officer, Raphael Mushanawani, confirming that he is on approved annual leave and is expected to resume duty next month. The clarification follows claims on social media alleging that Mushanawani had been placed on forced leave and would not be returning to the company.

NetOne dismisses social media claims

Speaking in an interview, NetOne Business Strategy Performance Executive John Mayambo described the reports as false and unfounded.

"This is just speculation. The CEO is on approved annual leave from July 13 to August 13. He is enjoying his time off, and he will resume duty on August 13. There is nothing forced about this—it's routine annual leave processed through normal channels," Mayambo said.

He said the allegations circulating online had no factual basis and risked unfairly damaging the chief executive's professional reputation. The clarification comes amid growing speculation on social media regarding possible leadership changes at the state-owned telecommunications company.

CTO appointed acting CEO

Mayambo confirmed that NetOne's Chief Technology Officer, Christopher Muchechemere, has been appointed Acting Group Chief Executive Officer during Mushanawani's absence. He said the appointment is a routine corporate governance measure designed to ensure operational continuity whenever the substantive chief executive is away on official leave. According to Mayambo, Muchechemere will continue serving in the acting capacity until Mushanawani resumes duty on 13 August 2026.

Company emphasises continuity

Although NetOne had not issued a formal statement through its official communication platforms at the time of publication, senior management maintains that the leave was approved through the company's normal internal processes. Corporate governance experts note that appointing an acting chief executive during the temporary absence of a substantive CEO is standard practice in both public and private sector organisations, ensuring uninterrupted decision-making and business operations.

As one of Zimbabwe's largest telecommunications providers, NetOne plays a critical role in mobile voice, data and digital financial services, making leadership continuity an important aspect of its day-to-day operations. The company has urged stakeholders to rely on verified information from official sources rather than unsubstantiated social media reports. There has been no indication from NetOne that any permanent leadership changes are under consideration.

NetOne CEO annual leave