Shamiso Fred Biography & Profile
Shamiso Fred is a prominent Zimbabwean entrepreneur, farmer, and property developer who has garnered attention for her multifaceted roles in business and social initiatives. Born in Zimbabwe, Fred has made significant contributions to various sectors, including agribusiness, health, and property development. This biography provides an overview of her life, education, career, and notable achievements, while also addressing controversies surrounding her professional journey.
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Age
While Shamiso Fred’s exact date of birth has not been disclosed, she is reported to have been born in 1973, which makes her 50 years old as of 2023
Education
- 1992 to 1995: Diploma in Nursing, Zimbabwe
- 2000: Health Science, Greenwich University, London
- 2002: Masters in Health Services Management, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
- 2004: Degree in Tropical Medicine, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
- PhD in Business Administration from the University of Zimbabwe
Career
Dr. Shamiso Fred is a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, farmer, and property developer. She is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the African Business Women Association (ABWA). ABWA focuses on empowering women in agribusiness, health, and value addition of African resources. In addition to her role in ABWA, Shamiso Fred is actively involved in various sectors, including mining, energy, tourism, and manufacturing.
Shamiso Fred [Image Credit: shamisofred.com]
Controversies
ABWA Zimbabwe Scheme Scandal (2022)
In October 2022, ABWA, led by Shamiso Fred, faced allegations resembling a Ponzi scheme. Reports indicated that over 2,000 investors, both local and international, experienced disruptions in their expected returns.
Background
The scheme, offering opportunities in poultry and dairy farming, came under scrutiny, with accusations of mismanagement, unfulfilled contracts, and questionable financial practices.
Impact
Investors reported significant financial losses, leading to a wave of anger and despair within the affected community.
CEO Response
In response to the crisis, Fred claimed that 300 contracts were mysteriously ‘eaten by dogs,’ adding a farcical element to the unfolding management chaos.
Graft Allegations and Misappropriation of Funds (2022)
Shamiso Fred faced serious allegations of misappropriating funds within ABWA, leading to a major scandal involving millions of US dollars.
Investigation
State security documents accused Fred of diverting funds from investors for personal use, purchasing properties, and engaging in activities outside the organization’s registered mandate[^2^].
Public Outcry
The scandal sparked public outrage, with calls for a thorough investigation into the alleged financial misconduct.
Arrests
Fraud Allegations (2023)
In November 2023, Shamiso Fred appeared in court, facing charges of defrauding 16 clients of USD 196,000 in a purported egg and dairy business investment scheme. Fred pleaded not guilty to charges of fraud and was granted bail.
Legal Proceedings
The court proceedings shed light on the intricate details of the fraud allegations, revealing a complex web of financial transactions.
Previous Fraud Case (2020)
In 2019, Shamiso Fred, then Zimbabwe’s trade and investment consul in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), faced fraud charges. She was accused of swindling a foreign currency dealer of nearly $1.5 million. Fred allegedly misrepresented having free funds in Dubai and duped the complainant into transferring the money into her company’s account. The case led to her removal from remand in January 2020 due to a lack of progress in investigations.
Recent Fraud Charges (2023)
In November 2023, Shamiso Fred appeared in court, charged with defrauding 16 clients of US$196,000 in a pyramid scheme related to her egg and dairy business. The charges included enticing clients with promises of substantial monthly profits, but upon maturity of their investments, many clients did not receive the expected returns. The case highlights allegations of financial mismanagement and misleading investment schemes.
Achievements
Shamiso Fred holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Zimbabwe. Throughout her career, she has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions to the economy and society.
References
- New Zimbabwe – October 20, 2022 by Gilbert Nyambabvu
- Newsday – October 21, 2022 by Freeman Makopa
- Nehanda Radio – January 28, 2020 – Desmond Chingarande
- ZimLive – August 20, 2019 by Lindie Whiz
- The Herald – November 10, 2023 – Yeukai Karengezeka
- Zim Morning Post – August 20, 2019
- Spiked Media – January 2023 by Byron Adonis Mutingwende
