Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba
Last week’s prayer gathering at State House was meant to be a moment of spiritual reflection. But as fate would have it, one apostolic sect member—affectionately referred to as Madzibaba—sparked a brand war with nothing more than a lunchbox and a slip of the tongue.
Captured on social media enjoying his meal, Madzibaba held up a box of Chicken Slice but confidently declared, “Ndiri kudya Chicken Inn.” The video went viral. And just like that, two of Zimbabwe’s biggest fast-food brands found themselves in a silent tug-of-war over a single customer’s loyalty—or at least his public endorsement.
Brand Power in Action
What followed was a fascinating display of brand psychology. Chicken Inn quickly responded with a post celebrating Madzibaba, positioning him as a loyal fan. Chicken Slice, not to be outdone, issued their own tribute, clarifying that the meal was theirs and thanking him for choosing their product.
But the real story isn’t about who served the chicken. It’s about what the mix-up revealed: Chicken Inn has become so deeply embedded in the Zimbabwean consumer’s mind that even when eating Chicken Slice, people still say “Chicken Inn.”
That’s top-of-mind awareness—the holy grail of brand marketing.
Kana munhu achidya brand yako pasina kunyatsoziva kuti ndeyako, wava kutonga musika.
The Madzibaba Effect
In a country where religious figures carry immense social influence, Madzibaba’s accidental endorsement was pure gold. Apostolic sects represent a massive, often under-targeted market segment.
Their gatherings are community-driven, values-based, and deeply loyal. For a brand to be name-dropped—intentionally or not—at such an event is no small feat.
It’s not just about visibility. It’s about cultural penetration.
Kana brand yako yava chikamu chetsika neupenyu hwevanhu, haichadi kushambadzwa zvakanyanya.
Chicken Inn’s Legacy Advantage
Chicken Inn has been around longer. It’s the brand many grew up with. It’s the name shouted across kombi ranks, schoolyards, and family road trips.
It’s the default. That’s why even when someone eats Chicken Slice, they might still say Chicken Inn.
This isn’t a slight against Chicken Slice. In fact, their packaging was clearly visible in the video. But the incident shows that brand recognition isn’t just about logos—it’s about emotional imprint.
Lessons for Marketers
1. Own the Mind, Not Just the Moment
Chicken Inn didn’t serve the meal, but they owned the narrative. That’s brand power.
2. Respond with Grace and Humor
Both brands handled the situation with dignity. No mudslinging, just clever positioning.
Kunyatsoziva kuti ungapindura sei nyaya yemusika kunokosha kupfuura kungopindura.
3. Tap Into Everyday Stories
Madzibaba wasn’t a paid influencer. He was just a man eating lunch. But his story became a national talking point. That’s the magic of authentic moments.
Finally
In Zimbabwe’s competitive fast-food landscape, the battle isn’t just for taste—it’s for memory. Chicken Inn may have won this round by being the name on everyone’s lips, but Chicken Slice showed agility and pride in their product.
As for Madzibaba? He reminded us that in marketing, the most powerful endorsements often come from the most unexpected places.
Zvinhu zvidiki zvinogona kushandura musika. Zvakaitika paState House hazvina kumbobvira zvakarongwa—asi zvakaratidza kuti brand yakasimba inogara ichitaurwa, kunyange pasina chikonzero.
*Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba is a Marketing, Sales & Customer Service Consultant. For suggestions and training, contact her at [email protected] or +263 712 979 461 / 0719 978 335 / 0772 978 335.