The Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy (ZID) conducted a five-day Executive Certificate Course in Diplomacy, Protocol, Grooming, Etiquette and Professional Branding for staff from the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA). The programme ran from 28 September to 2 October 2026 at 85 Broadlands Road, Emerald Hill, Harare.
Facilitated by Academic V. A. Chikanda, guest presenters Mr Richard Kajere and Miss Tafadzwa Shame, the programme focused on strengthening participants’ ability to manage official engagements, represent their institution confidently and uphold high standards of diplomatic and professional conduct.
The training was rooted in the need to equip ZIDA staff with the requisite competencies in diplomacy, protocol, etiquette, professional grooming and branding to effectively fulfil their institutional mandate. In their interactions with investors, government officials, diplomatic missions and other stakeholders, how they communicate, present themselves and conduct business helps shape perceptions of both the Agency and Zimbabwe as an investment destination. The programme therefore sought to strengthen their capacity to navigate cultural differences, build investor confidence and develop productive stakeholder relationships.
Participants explored diplomatic communication, official protocol, professional etiquette and personal branding, with a focus on their application in business and government settings. They also examined international relations, international law, foreign policy and the principles of diplomacy and statecraft.
Further sessions covered negotiation, communication, leadership, event management and personal effectiveness. These areas connected the broader principles of diplomacy with the everyday demands of engaging stakeholders, coordinating official activities and representing ZIDA with professionalism and distinction.
Through this programme, ZID supported ZIDA’s efforts to strengthen staff competencies and promote professional, responsive service in its engagements with investors and other stakeholders.
