In the heart of Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation stands a company that has redefined the way smallholder farmers access resources and support. Tamerod Investments (Pvt) Ltd., under the leadership of Admire Chakanetsa, is a symbol of innovation, resilience, and purpose in the African agribusiness landscape. Aiming to empower farmers and bridge critical gaps in the agricultural value chain, the company reflects vision, integrity, and strategic leadership.
This article explores Tamerod Investments’ story, from its expansion, crises, and unyielding determination of its Managing Director to bring about lasting reforms.
Genesis of a Vision
Tamerod Investments came into being through a lucid vision of the plight of smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe. “Our mandate is to fill the gap of support in agriculture, stimulating growth and productivity for farmers,” says Admire Chakanetsa.
With an agribusiness finance background, he acknowledged the urgent need for consistent agro supplies and professional advisory services. In three years, the business has expanded through strength and creativity, responding to customer needs. Tamerod is today a proud driver of agricultural development, empowering farmers with quality inputs and professional advice.
“Don’t just aspire to make a living, aspire to make a difference’” Denzel Washington
Leadership Rooted in Integrity and Vision
A value-based leadership philosophy of integrity, compassion, and vision guides Tamerod Investments. Respect Chakanetsa, the entrepreneur and force behind the company, believes that leadership rests on values. “Integrity is better capital than money,” he quotes Dr. Strive Masiyiwa. This determines how Tamerod engages partners and clients, building lasting trust. Compassion is also central to his approach.
Admire keeps solutions impactful and thoughtful by ensuring his team has a deep understanding of the needs of his clients. Because of its human-centered approach, Tamerod is well-known in Zimbabwe’s agribusiness sector. In Africa’s dynamic business environment, Admire sees iconic leadership as a blend of vision, innovation, and adaptability. “It’s about being willing to disrupt the status quo,” he says. In spite of difficulties such as high costs of borrowing and unofficial markets, he thinks that authentic leaders are change inspirers and constructors of sustainable businesses. His leadership at Tamerod is a testimony to this philosophy, leading by example in a compelling manner.
From Challenges to Growth Opportunities
The African agricultural industry holds vast untapped potential, yet in abundance, most communities still use food aid. Admire Chakanetsa confirms, “We want to reverse this situation.” This void is addressed by Tamerod Investments, whose free agronomic guidance is supplemented with affordable, high-quality farm inputs. By helping farmers transition from subsistence to commercial agriculture, their business advisory services improve livelihoods and productivity. This all-encompassing strategy contributes to a more independent and food-secure Africa.
One of the key turning points in Tamerod’s venture was when Admire decided to sell his personal assets to finance the business. “I took the strategic decision to sell my personal property to capitalize the business,” he reveals. This action broke funding obstacles and created opportunities for bank and supplier partnerships. These alliances enabled Tamerod to expand its offerings and branch network, reinforcing its reputation as a bold and innovative player in Zimbabwe’s agribusiness space.
“If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.” ― Seneca
Building Strength Through People, Purpose, and Perseverance
At Tamerod Investments, leadership is a collective endeavor. “I have been lucky to have a driven and passionate team surround me,” states Admire Chakanetsa.
By facilitating budding talent and a spirit of teamwork, Admire promotes innovation and assumes responsibilities. His mentorship style inspires development and creates a culture of contribution. Success, according to Admire, is not only about profitability metrics. “It’s about business growth, employee growth, and empowering our customers,” he encapsulates. Tamerod’s inspiration mantra, “See gold, where others see dust,” is the underlying principle. The staff drive the business towards prosperity—if they do well, customers do well, and the business does well.
That all-encompassing perspective complements Tamerod’s focus on intentional expansion. There have been setbacks along the way, however. From theft by employees to bad debts, Tamerod has experienced colossal blowbacks. “Setbacks shouldn’t define us – we can either learn or fold,” Admire is convinced. Such setbacks led to a complete re-engineering of recruitment and operating systems, cementing the company’s pillars. Today, Tamerod is stronger than ever, guided by lessons and a determination to improve.
Innovating for Impact and Growing with Purpose
Innovation drives Tamerod Investments’ strategy in the evolving agribusiness space. “We’ve introduced new products that have increased yields by up to 40%,” says Admire Chakanetsa. The company has also launched organic fertilizers and customized its retail outlets to suit regional needs. Through a one-stop-shop model and global partnerships, Tamerod continues to stay relevant and influential. Its commitment to sustainability and collaboration ensures long-term, meaningful growth.
In addition to innovation, Tamerod emphasizes economic and social development. While expanding throughout the provinces of Zimbabwe, the business provides opportunities for society. “We want to have a positive contribution to food security, employment, and economic development,” Admire clarifies. Partnering with the right organizations, Tamerod intends to scale up into the SADC region and ultimately into global markets, pioneering sustainable agriculture and moving toward a more food-secure Africa.
“No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it”– Halford. E. Luccock
Inspiring Impact and Lasting Legacy
Admire Chakanetsa views Tamerod Investments as not just a company—it’s a legacy in the making. “We want to create a business that’s a beacon of innovation, excellence, and influence,” he says. Taking his cue from global titans such as Walmart and Apple, he aims to develop a brand that not only dominates agribusiness but also inspires generations to come.
To Admire, success is leaving a lasting legacy. For aspiring professionals, he has this to say: “Passion and perseverance are key drivers of success.” Admire reminds them to use adversity as stepping stones, quoting Denzel Washington: “Ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship.” With the right attitude and drive, he believes success is attainable. He also stresses the role of entrepreneurial spirit, flexibility, and Ubuntu—a philosophy based on humanity and serving others.
Recognition and Impact
Admire’s impact and leadership has not been overlooked. “Being listed among the Most Influential 40 Under 40 Directors of 2025 is the culmination of my experiences,” he says. His educational and professional experience has prepared him to lead positive change. This is an acknowledgement of his influence on the company and the sector. It speaks to the power of hard work, planning, and dedication to excellence.
“We Africans are able to build companies that can operate in the global environment.” Srive Masiyiwa
African Leadership in the World Arena
African entrepreneurs are resilient and forward-thinking, carrying this attitude on the world stage. “We don’t wait for things to happen; we make things happen,” he stresses. Admire takes inspiration from business leaders such as Aliko Dangote and Strive Masiyiwa, whose experiences show that success on the world stage is possible. African leadership is about turning adversity into opportunity and leaving a permanent footprint in the world.
Conclusion
Tamerod Investments and Managing Director, Admire Chakanetsa, are an example of vision, courage, and a steadfast commitment. From its modest roots to being recognized in the industry, the journey of the company has been led by integrity. As Tamerod keeps expanding and innovating, it is a shining example of hope and forward momentum for African agribusiness. In the face of adversity, through collective effort and a profound sense of responsibility, Admire and the people at Tamerod are forging a future where agriculture flourishes and communities prosper.
