By Marshall Bwanya
HARARE – Ownega Travels, a fast-rising travel agency helping Zimbabweans relocate to Dubai, has scooped gold in the Best Entrepreneurship in Travel Agency category at the Zimbabwe CEOs Network Awards held on October 17, 2025.
The recognition comes barely two years after the company’s founding by co-directors Arnold Tawanda Milos and Edmore Tatenda Chitambo on June 5, 2023, and its registration in Zimbabwe in April 2024, a testament to the agency’s meteoric rise in a sector plagued by mistrust and scams.
The award marks a defining moment for the young agency, which has not only bridged the gap between aspiring migrants and legitimate travel services but has also restored confidence among Zimbabweans seeking opportunities in Dubai.
“They said our work at Ownega Travels stood out for its excellence and impact.
“Ownega Travels is a travel agency helping people move and settle in Dubai easily,” said Milos.
For years, Zimbabweans have fallen victim to a range of Dubai-related scams, from fake job offers and resold visas to identity theft and financial manipulation.
Unscrupulous middlemen and fraudulent recruiters have preyed on the desperation of job seekers, leaving many stranded or indebted.
Ownega Travels has managed to distinguish itself as a legitimate and ethical bridge, protecting clients from these risks while offering transparent, structured relocation services.
Milos explained how the company’s model has earned trust among clients.
“Ownega Travels has a package where we provide everything needed by someone who wants to move to Dubai for a job search.
“With this package, clients get a visa, plane ticket, accommodation, and many other things to help with their job search. In case you don’t want to take the full package, we also provide these services separately,” he said.
The process, according to Milos, is straightforward and efficient.
“All you need to have is your passport. We start by processing your visa.
“Visas usually take no more than two weeks to come out, so it can take roughly four to seven weeks from the moment you pay until you arrive here,” he said.
However, he added that the company never promises guaranteed jobs.
“Getting a job depends on many factors, so realistically no one can guarantee that you will get a job easily.
“But we do our best to assist you with everything you need to increase your chances,” said Milos.
Client testimonials echo that confidence.
Tatenda Mutamba, one of the agency’s clients who relocated in January 2023, described the company as “truly huchi (the best)!”
“Ownega Travels feels more like a family, very supportive, professional, and caring.
“Even after you get a job, they are still there for you. To me, they are like big brothers, loving, kind, and genuinely concerned about your success,” said Mutamba.
Tinashe Muduwa, another client, said his relocation process was seamless from start to finish.
“My experience with Ownega Travels has been exceptional. The team demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a genuine interest in ensuring my needs were met.
“They guided me through visa processing, accommodation, and job search assistance effectively.
“Their personalized approach and attention to detail stood out,” said Muduwa.
Beyond efficiency, clients value the human touch.
Tadiwa Chiremba, who travelled to Dubai last year, said the agency’s guidance made her transition smoother.
“Ownega doesn’t only provide you with travel assistance but they train you to know the ins and outs of Dubai so that your life can be easier.
“It felt more like home away from home. I got a job within a month of entering Dubai,” she said.
Others like Vanessa Mavhunga praised the agency’s professionalism and affordability.
“Their services not only met my expectations but exceeded them.
“The accommodation assistance was top-notch, comfortable and within budget, way better than a lot of accommodations I see around.
“Their job search assistance was fantastic and their service friendly and tailored to individual needs,” she said.
While some clients like Tinashe Mamvura noted that “the package is a little bit expensive” and that “accommodation can be a challenge,” he still rated the agency highly.
“When you deal with them, just relax and wait. The way they do their things is smooth and hustle-free. I’d give them 8 out of 10,” he said.
For Milos and Chitambo, such feedback represents more than customer satisfaction, it validates their mission to offer ethical and transparent travel solutions in a market fraught with exploitation.
“We understand the challenges Zimbabweans face because we’ve been here ourselves.
“We prepare CVs, provide guidebooks on job applications, share job links, and give all necessary tips,” said Milos.
In a space where fake recruitment ads and visa scams have trapped many Zimbabweans, Ownega Travels has built a brand anchored on trust, credibility, and community support.
It is a model that not only addresses the logistical side of migration but also empowers clients to navigate Dubai’s competitive job market safely and confidently.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with unemployment and economic challenges, the demand for legitimate relocation services will only grow.
Ownega Travels’ golden recognition from the Zimbabwe CEOs Network signals not just a business triumph but a social one, proof that ethical entrepreneurship can thrive even in high-risk sectors.
“Winning this award inspires us to keep doing better.
“We’re proud to represent Zimbabwe and to show that transparency, professionalism, and compassion can go hand in hand in business,” Milos said.
