OK Zimbabwe Limited Celebrates Legendary TV Presenter John Phiri

Staff Writer

The OK Trolley for Trolley Challenge made a grand entrance into Mbare and Glen View over the weekend, much to the delight of local shoppers.

This innovative challenge offers customers the chance to win back their trolleys, effectively doubling their purchases with an additional trolley of the same value. This weekend’s event took on extra significance as it honored John Phiri, a legendary Zimbabwean TV presenter, with a substantial shopping voucher.

John Phiri, a revered figure in Zimbabwean broadcasting, is best known for his work on the popular ZBC shows Ezomgido/Mutinhimira weMumhanzi.

Phiri, who initially presented alongside Barney Mpariwa and later with Eric Knight, alternated hosting duties with the dynamic teams of Tilder Moyo and Captain Gift Msipa.

The show also featured notable presenters like Themba Mkanda and Godfrey Gweje in its later years.

Themba Mkanda led the ceremony as the OK Trolley for Trolley Challenge Brand Ambassador, adding to the event’s significance.

Phiri played a pivotal role in revolutionizing music video production in Zimbabwe as part of The A Team, which included talents like Kaycee Kanameya. This team elevated the quality of music videos, further boosting the popularity of Ezomgido.

Phiri and Eric Knight were instrumental in retail giant OK Zimbabwe Limited’s marketing efforts, conducting live broadcasts from OK stores across the country.

Themba Mkanda and Tilda Moyo who worked with John Phiri at ZBC (centre) at the Trolley for Trolley handover ceremony in Makomva Glen View.

They also anchored the wildly popular OK Grand Challenge Race Days for years, cementing their legacy in Zimbabwean media.

In recognition of his contributions, OK Zimbabwe Limited presented John Phiri with a voucher card for free groceries and accessories from any of their outlets. This gesture comes at a crucial time, as Phiri has recently faced health challenges following a stroke that affected his speech.

The Tilder Moyo Foundation, led by his former colleague and friend Tilder Moyo, has been at the forefront of efforts to improve Phiri’s situation. The foundation has engaged therapists to help John, renovated his home, facilitated a holiday in Victoria Falls, and reached out to fashion companies to provide designer wear for him.

John Phiri remains a loyal customer of OK Zimbabwe Limited, frequently shopping at the OK Makomva branch in Glen View. This long-standing relationship only strengthened OK Zimbabwe Limited’s resolve to honor a cherished former collaborator and customer.

The weekend’s events not only celebrated the lucky winners of the Trolley for Trolley Challenge but also paid tribute to a broadcasting legend, reaffirming OK Zimbabwe Limited’s commitment to its community and heritage.

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