Sydney Gata Dies

Witness Runodada Zim Now reporter

Sydney Zikuzo Gata, the Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, has died, the company announced in an internal memo circulated to staff on Thursday.

“On behalf of the ZESA Holdings Board, it is with profound sense of sorrow and sadness that we announce the untimely death of our Executive Chairman, Dr. Sydney Zikuzo Gata who passed on last night,” read the notice

Gata had a long and eventful tenure with Zimbabwe’s power utility. He was appointed CEO in 2000 after serving as General Manager and rose to the position of Executive Chairman in 2003. He was dismissed in 2006, but made a dramatic comeback in 2019, leading the company through a period of restructuring and attempted reforms in the energy sector.

The company praised his legacy, stating, “Dr. Gata served the ZESA Group of Companies successively with distinction, dedication, patriotism and was a visionary leader who shaped the Energy Industry, and his contributions will sadly be missed.”

Condolences were extended to his wife, Deputy Minister and Member of Parliament Angeline Gata, his children, loved ones, and all who knew him. “We offer our deepest condolences to his wife Deputy Minister, Angeline Gata (MP), children, loved ones and all who knew him,” the statement continued.

ZESA also noted that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.