Zimbabwes telecom giant Econet Wireless has taken a deliberate, symbolic step into the next generation: adding Sarah Masiyiwa to its board as an Alternate Director, effective 1 October 2025. She joins her sister, Elizabeth Tanya Masiyiwa, who has served as a full director since April 2022. The move marks a consolidation of the Masiyiwa familys influence in the company founded by their father, Strive Masiyiwa, just as he transitions out of frontline governance roles in the business realm.
Succession in motion at the boardroom
Econet signalled the change in late September, noting Sarahs role would add depth to investment strategy and business development, reflecting her experience managing portfolios across public and private sectors. Her background in economics, journalism and oversight positions in global media further supports the narrative of an evolving leadership. Elizabeth, meanwhile, has been building her profile balancing boards in philanthropy and impact, especially through the Higherlife Foundation, and maintaining a presence in innovation, education and social causes. Her appointment in 2022, coming just after Strive stepped down from directorship roles, was seen as the opening act of a longer handover. By installing Sarah, the family now holds two seats one full, one alternate reinforcing both symbolic and practical control over corporate direction. Analysts say this move is less about day-to-day tasks than about preserving governance alignment across strategy, legacy and generational vision.