By Virginia Njovo
Prominent businessman Antony Clever Pote collapsed during the burial of his sister, Alice Pote, in an emotional farewell held in Chivi on Thursday, June 19, 2025.
Pote reportedly lost consciousness during the body viewing process as emotions ran high. Sources close to the family said he was overwhelmed with grief and had to be resuscitated by first aid responders.
Alice Pote, died on Monday morning at her home in Izayi Park, Zvishavane, after reportedly suffering from acute respiratory failure and a pulmonary embolism. She was the Finance Director of Pote Holdings, and a driving force behind the company’s expansion across Zimbabwe.
“She was not just a sister to him; she was a partner in building the family empire. Watching her for the last time broke him,” said a close family member who witnessed the moment.
Alice is survived by her husband, identified only as Mr. Mushwaka and three children.
Often referred to as the brain behind Pote Holdings’ diversification, Alice played a central role in the growth of the family business from a small retail outlet to a nationwide empire. She founded Stallion Cruise Bus Company, one of the most reliable transport services in Zimbabwe, and was instrumental in launching the Pote Hills Hotel in Zvishavane and the Clevers Hotel.
Under her stewardship, Pote Holdings ventured into retail, transport, construction, hospitality, microfinance, earthmoving, agriculture, and mining, creating hundreds of jobs and significantly contributing to local economies, particularly in Chivi North where the business first became a household name.
Her death has left a deep void not only in the Pote family but in the wider business community.
