When registering a company in Zimbabwe—whether a Private Limited Company (PLC) or a Private Business Corporation (PBC)—one of the very first steps is submitting your preferred company name to the Registrar of Companies for name reservation.
In 2025, the process remains largely the same, but understanding why a proposed name may be rejected is more crucial than ever to avoid delays and ensure a smooth registration.
At Zimbabwe Company Registry, we continue to recommend using a business consultant to navigate this process efficiently. And yes, it’s still best practice to submit at least four to five name options, as not all will be accepted.
�� Why Can the Registrar Reject a Company Name?
Under the Companies and Other Business Entities Act [Chapter 24:03], the Registrar is empowered to reject any company name that doesn’t meet legal and ethical standards. Here’s what you need to know:
✅ 1. The Name Is Already Taken or Too Similar
Your proposed name will be rejected if it:
- Is identical to an existing name already reserved or registered for:
- Another local company
- A foreign company operating in Zimbabwe
- A registered Private Business Corporation
- Closely resembles an existing name, which may mislead or confuse the public.
�� Note: Even if a company is under liquidation, you still need consent for name reuse.
❌ 2. The Name Is Misleading, Offensive, or Undesirable
The Registrar has the discretion to reject names that:
- Could mislead the public about your business’s nature or affiliation.
- Might offend individuals or groups.
- Contain blasphemous, vulgar, or indecent language.
- Are considered undesirable for any reason.
⚠️ 3. Use of Restricted Words Without Permission
Certain words are regulated by other laws. For example:
- Words like “Bank,” “Insurance,” or “University” require specific licenses or authority approval.
- The Registrar will reject any name containing restricted terms unless you provide written permission from the relevant authority.
�� 4. Use of “Co-operative” in the Name
If you include “Co-operative” (or any variation of it), your company’s constitution must comply with Section 36 of the Act. Without this, the Registrar will reject the name outright.
��️ 5. Names That Imply Government or VIP Endorsement
In 2025, the law still prohibits names that suggest a business is endorsed by:
- The Government of Zimbabwe
- A specific authority or public official
- Any person of national prominence
➡️ Such names require written approval from the Minister.
�� 6. Post-Registration Name Change Orders
Even after registration, the Registrar may order a name change within 12 months if the name:
- Is found to be misleading or offensive
- Violates any part of the Act
- Turns out to be legally or socially problematic
You will have six weeks (or a longer period, at the Registrar’s discretion) to comply with this order.
�� How to Avoid Name Rejection
- Submit 4–5 unique, legally safe name options.
- Avoid using restricted, misleading, or suggestive words.
- Use a business consultant to perform a name availability check before submission.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and ministries, especially when using sensitive terms.
