CommuTalk Reporter
GWERU – The Midlands province has been plunged into mourning following the death of a popular Gweru businessman and philanthropist Lazarus Chikadaya this Wednesday.
The Drawlink founding Director died after a short illness.
Family spokesperson Conceptor Mpofu confirmed the news and said the family is shattered by the death of the patriarchal figure of the Chikadaya clan.
“He was everything in this family. He would take everyone on board without segregation. The void he has left will be very difficult to fill. We have just been robbed and it took us by a huge surprise,” she said.
Prominent figures in the city have also described Chikadaya’s death as a big blow to the construction industry.
“Mr Chikadaya was instrumental in road construction currently being spearheaded by the Second Republic. In Gweru, he is in the top two of those in construction industry in terms of capacity. He has changed the lives of many.
“He inspired me to return to the construction industry after I had stopped. He has contributed immensely to the country’s development,” said Dr Josaya Tayim of Midlands Private Hospital.
“One thing I liked about the way he was doing business was his ability to romp in his family. This will ensure continuity so I am generally not worried about the company going forward,” Dr Tayi added.
Added Patrick Chikwanda, a friend and business colleague, “Chikadaya’s death is a big blow not only to us as friends but to the community at large. He filled big gaps through his philanthropic work outside his business empire. He will be greatly missed.”
In honor of the late businessman, Shesham Construction has since postponed their team’s fundraising dinner which was also tipped to be the team’s player and kit unveiling ceremony so that they mourn the business giant.
Drawlink Construction company took the industry by storm after he acquired an Asphalt making machine worth half a million United States dollars which ensured import substitution for the product critical in road construction late last year.
Chikadaya survived by his wife Jane and three children.
Mourners are gathered at house number 26 Bradley Road in Windsor Park Gweru.
