International OD Conference Kicks Off in Harare

Professor Paul Mavima, Minister of Skills Audit

Zim Now Writer

The International Organisation Development Conference and Doctoral Consortium opened in Harare today, bringing together global experts, practitioners, and thought leaders for three days of high-level engagement on transforming organisations, communities, and nations.

Running from August 13 to 15 under the theme “Strategic Foresight, Regeneration and Transformation: A Synergistic Approach to Organisational Evolution,” the gathering is focusing on how OD methodologies can drive lasting change in both the public and private sectors.

Guest of honour Professor Paul Mavima, Minister of Skills Audit and Development, is delivering the keynote address on the role of skills development in accelerating national transformation.

Conference chairperson Dr. Justine Chinoperekweyi said the event is designed to be an interactive, transformative experience rather than a traditional lecture-based meeting.

“This is our sixth edition, following last year’s success in Gaborone, Botswana. Participants are co-creators, engaging in processes that lead to practical outcomes, not just theoretical discussions,” he said.

The aim this year is to develop a practical framework built on three pillars—strategic foresight, regeneration, and transformation—to enhance the regenerative capacity of organisations, communities, and nations.

Sessions on the programme include nature-inspired wisdom, group coaching, an Appreciative Inquiry mini summit, an artificial intelligence session, and discussions on indigenous wisdom in organisational transformation. The event also features a doctoral consortium.

Among the headline speakers is Botswana-based OD practitioner Gaone Nikki Makoko, who is presenting on the role of storytelling in leadership, drawing on Botswana’s national mindset change strategy.

“I’m delighted to be in Zimbabwe for the first time,” Makoko said, noting she had already visited local landmarks such as Mbare Musika and Lake Chivero.

Also addressing the conference is Mercedes Martin, CEO of Mercedes Martin and Company and founder of The Vuka Collective, who is speaking on “rewiring the leadership mindset and heartset” as a foundation for organisational evolution.

Martin is spearheading the Regenerative Africa initiative in collaboration with One Thriving Planet, Africa Publishers Network, Pan African Writers Association, and the Centre for Organization Leadership and Development.

The conference is organised by the Organization Leadership and Development Network and the Centre for Organisation Leadership and Development, with support from Genesis Global Finance GGF Africa, Hopehill Radiology, Talent Exchange Group, City Parking, and Mercedes Martin and Company.