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FLOAAI directors walk free as fraud charges collapse

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FLOAAI directors walk free as fraud charges collapse

By Tadiwa Shunje

MASVINGO – Directors of Full Life Open Arms Africa Investment (FLOAAI) Housing Trust, Pastor Godfrey Nelson Madanyaya and Dr Andrew Chigudu, walked free on June 5, 2026, after Masvingo Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura dismissed fraud charges against them, ruling that the State had failed to establish a prima facie (meaning a case that is sufficient on its face to proceed to trial) case.

The pair had been accused of fraud in connection with the Buffalo Range Town Expansion project in Chiredzi. Prosecutors alleged that approximately 1,700 residential stands were used as collateral to secure a US$1.2 million loan from NMB Bank and that funds earmarked for feasibility studies were diverted for personal use.

After considering evidence from six witnesses, including officials from Chiredzi Town Council and Chiredzi Rural District Council, Magistrate Bepura ruled that the State had failed to prove the essential elements of fraud. The court noted that the witnesses’ testimony instead showed the existence of contractual agreements between the parties and beneficiaries involved in the housing project.

“The State failed to make out a prima facie case against the accused persons. The facts placed before this court disclose a contractual dispute, which is a matter for determination by a civil court. The essential elements of fraud have not been established, and the accused are therefore discharged at the close of the State case,” said Bepura.

The criminal case had its origins in a project that began more than a decade ago. Sometime in 2015, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Fisheries offered Chiredzi Town Council 750 hectares of the remainder of Buffalo Range to develop residential stands for the local community. 

Since the area was under the jurisdiction of Chiredzi Rural District Council, a joint committee was formed by the two local authorities to oversee the project.

The two councils engaged FLOAAI to carry out a feasibility study and handle town planning tasks, including subdivision of the land and identification of possible routes for road opening and excavation up to hard surface. FLOAAI was mandated to develop phase one of 350 hectares and hand it over to the two councils.

However, the project soon ran into trouble. FLOAAI Director, Pastor Godfrey Nelson Madanyaya, was accused of seizing the project and selling stands to desperate home seekers in Chiredzi while allegedly name-dropping President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Minister July Moyo as the owners of the project. 

Madanyaya’s list of buyers reportedly grew to more than 1,000 people, including Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) affiliates, who were paying through the Salary Services Bureau (SSB) but were never given offer letters.

In July 2022, the land developer applied for a loan from NMB Bank amounting to US$1.2 million. The State alleged that the developer misrepresented that the loan was guaranteed by the two councils, with 1,700 stands set aside as surety. According to the prosecution, the councils believed the loan was for development of the project and set aside 1,700 stands as collateral, but the developers allegedly converted the loan to personal use and sold the stands without the councils’ knowledge.

Investigations by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission established that when the stands were sold, the proposed stands on the project were not serviced as per the agreement, and there was no subdivision permit or compliance certificate from the two local boards.

The controversy also drew the attention of the community. The Chiredzi Residents and Ratepayers Association (CHIRRA) sought a court order barring Madanyaya from selling unserviced residential stands. In July 2024, the Masvingo High Court, per Justice Zisengwe, granted an order stopping the sale of stands until after servicing and the issuance of a compliance certificate by the two councils. Despite the order, FLOAAI reportedly continued to deduct money from civil servants registered with them.

In another twist, Chiredzi Rural District Council later moved to terminate its contract with FLOAAI, citing irregularities and breach of contract, and resolved to part ways with both the developer and the Town Council on the 750-hectare joint venture housing project.

The criminal case had previously drawn the attention of Special Presidential Adviser Dr Joram Gumbo. In 2025, Pastor Madanyaya successfully sought Dr Gumbo’s intervention in support of the Buffalo Range Town Expansion project.

In a letter dated August 22, 2025, Dr Gumbo urged Chiredzi Town Council to facilitate the project, arguing that it aligned with the government’s Vision 2030 objective of improving access to affordable housing.

“I received communication directed from His Excellency, The President, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, concerning an appeal by Pastor G.N. Madanyaya. Recognizing that this initiative aligns directly with the national objectives under Vision 2030 to enhance access to affordable housing, it is critical that such projects receive adequate support to succeed,” reads part of the letter.

Dr Gumbo, however, later amended the correspondence after learning that the matter was before the courts and that the project was the subject of legal proceedings.

“The government does not interfere with matters currently before the courts. I have now been informed that this matter is before the court; therefore, the court’s decision should guide the determination of the matter,” he wrote.

With the dismissal of the criminal charges, the legal saga takes a different turn. The court having ruled that the matter is essentially a contractual dispute, it now falls to a civil court, if any of the aggrieved parties choose to pursue that route, to determine the rights and obligations of the parties under the development agreement. Meanwhile, Madanyaya and Chigudu walk free from the criminal court, their names cleared of fraud.

Two die in separate incidents at Bikita Minerals 

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Two die in separate incidents at Bikita Minerals 

By Brighton Chiseva

BIKITA – Two people died in separate incidents at Bikita Minerals over the weekend, prompting renewed scrutiny of safety practices and incident reporting procedures at Zimbabwe’s largest lithium mining operation.

The deaths, which occurred less than 24 hours apart, involved a dump truck operator employed by a mining contractor and a security guard working for a contracted security company.

In a statement issued on June 8, 2026, Bikita Minerals said the first incident occurred on June 6 at around 7:45pm, involving Mr Thomas Kaliveni (40), a dump truck operator employed by WGB Kinsey & Company.

“Bikita Minerals regrets to confirm two separate incidents involving employees of independent contracting companies working at our operations. Incident one is a fatal accident involving a dump truck operator. On 6 June 2026, at approximately 19:45 hours, a fatal accident occurred involving Mr Thomas Kaliveni (40), a dump truck operator employed by WGB Kinsey & Company, one of our independent contractors. Mr Kaliveni sustained injuries in an incident at a waste dump site and subsequently succumbed to those injuries,” reads part of the statement.

While Bikita Minerals expressed condolences and emphasized that both deceased individuals were employees of independent contractors, allegations have emerged regarding the mine’s handling of the fatal accident involving the dump truck driver.

The mining company said Kaliveni sustained fatal injuries during an incident at a waste dump site and later succumbed to those injuries.

However, information obtained from sources familiar with the incident suggests that Kaliveni died at the scene after the dump truck he was operating overturned while offloading waste material.

Sources said Kaliveni was driving dump truck S10 and had proceeded to the designated waste dump area to dispose of waste material. While reversing toward the tipping point, the truck reportedly became unstable and overturned sideways down the dump slope.

The driver was allegedly thrown from the vehicle and subsequently struck by rocks and waste material dislodged during the rollover.

Workers nearby reportedly rushed to rescue him by removing debris that had trapped him. Despite these efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.

According to an internal incident account seen by this publication, operations at the waste dump area were immediately suspended and the scene secured while management, emergency personnel and authorities were notified.

The fatal accident has also generated controversy following allegations from sources who claim mine management attempted to influence how the circumstances surrounding the death were recorded.

Sources alleged that senior Chinese management personnel from Bikita Minerals were among the first officials to arrive at the accident scene.

They allegedly sought to have police remove Kaliveni’s body from the scene and portray the death as having occurred while he was being transported to hospital rather than at the accident site.

The same sources further alleged that mine officials did not immediately notify officials from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development as required under standard accident reporting procedures, instead waiting until the following morning before filing a report.

These allegations could not be independently verified at the time of publication, and Bikita Minerals had not publicly responded to the claims.

Contacted for comment on the matter, Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dehwa said he was yet to receive the report of the incident.

He however said it was against the law to fail to report such an incident within 24 hours.

Contacted for comment on the incident and to ascertain the time it was reported to the Ministry of Mines, Masvingo Provincial Mines Director Marsha Muzira referred questions to director for communication and advocacy in the ministry of mines and mining development Wilfred Munetsi.

Contacted by TellZim News, Munetsi asked the reporter to send questions in writing and said he would respond the following day after getting information and clearance.

In a separate and unrelated incident, a security guard employed by Rebnek Security was found dead while on duty during the early hours of Sunday, June 7.

According to information provided by sources and contained in an incident report, the guard had reportedly been observed performing his duties normally during routine supervisory inspections earlier in the night.

His supervisor is said to have conducted two inspections during the shift and found no signs of illness or distress.

However, during a third inspection round at approximately 4:00am, the supervisor reportedly discovered the guard lying unresponsive at his post.

Authorities were subsequently notified and a police report was filed.

The cause of death had not yet been established at the time of publication, although preliminary reports suggest it may have been a suspected sudden death.

The company stated that investigations into the dump truck accident were ongoing and that further details would not be released while investigative processes continued.

“Out of respect for the families and the ongoing investigative processes, no further details will be released at this stage,” the company said.

Bikita Minerals also expressed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of both deceased workers.

“The safety, health and wellbeing of everyone working at our operations remain a core priority,” the statement added.

The latest fatalities have once again drawn attention to safety concerns at the lithium mining operation.

Bikita Minerals has experienced a number of serious workplace incidents in recent years.

In August 2025, a dump truck operator was reportedly killed after being struck by another dump truck while at work.

During the same month, three schoolchildren related to mine employees were reportedly injured after being struck by blasting debris.

In October 2023, a plant operator died after becoming trapped in machinery he was operating. Reports at the time indicated that his body remained trapped for several hours before recovery equipment could be sourced.

Other incidents reported at the mine have included serious workplace injuries resulting in permanent disability.

Khami Prison Inmates Lead a Bold Fight Against HIV/AIDS

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Khami Prison Inmates Lead a Bold Fight Against HIV/AIDS

By Tapfuma Machakaire

In a striking twist inside one of Zimbabwe’s correctional facilities, inmates at Khami Prison near Bulawayo are delivering powerful blows in the global battle to end HIV and AIDS by 2030.What started quietly in 2020 as a small mentorship program has exploded into a full-scale health movement. Today, nearly 800 inmates out of over 5000 at Khami are on life-saving antiretroviral treatment, and more are stepping forward to get tested every month.Addressing journalist during a media tour of the facility recently Ncobeni Mutale, National AIDS Council District Coordinator for Luveve, narrated the humble beginnings from a Brotha2Brotha model with just five mentors targeting young men aged 10 to 24.”The turning point came in 2023 after a NAC Board visit. The program was rebranded as the Key Populations Programme, shattering age and gender limits. Mentor numbers at Khami Maximum doubled to ten, now called Peer Educators. Their mission expanded to covering TB, non-communicable diseases, gender-based violence and drug and subtance abuse,” said Mutale.Armed with gadgets from NAC, the Peer Educators are running primary health checks for NCDs right inside the complex, where they screen inmates for temperature, high bloodpressure and bloodsugarl evels. “Education can change the Nation” said Moses Moyo who knows the program from both sides, first as a peer beneficiary in 2022, then graduated to a Peer Educator in 2024. “Each of us mentors 50 inmates for a full year,” Moyo explained. “The response is overwhelming. Inmates who once avoided clinics are now volunteering for HIV tests. “Twice a month, they gather for lessons straight from HIV manuals and the conversations go further. “We talk TB prevention, drug abuse and gender-based violence. We are committed to help hit that 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat .”Moyo doubles as headmaster of the prison’s indoor school. NAC also provided soccer balls for use in edutainment activities. After every match, players huddle not just to dissect goals, but to tackle health issues head-on. “We discuss HIV, we discuss life,” Moyo says. For Blessing Chiriri, mentorship was a wake-up call. “When I came to prison in 2020, I was ignorant about health,” he admits. “Now I know about STIs. When I leave here, I will not go back to abusing alcohol. I will also be careful with my sex life.” Khami Prisons and Correctional Service runs four prisons, Khami Maximum, Khami Medium, Khami Remand, and Mlondolozi. Officer in Charge Khami Maximum, Chief Superintendent Panonetsa Chemugarira told Journalists that health care for inmates remains a priority for the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service.” Every inmate gets a health exam on admission, though HIV testing is not compulsory. Rehabilitation officers follow up even after release to ensure adherence to treatment for those on ART.

“What is happening at Khami on the HIV programme surprised Journalists on the tour. “I never thought such kind of a programme would be possible for offenders. I am shocked to learn that there are people so intelligent in prisons who can run such a programme in such an organized manner” said Silas Nkala one of the Journalists who toured the facility.”

Nkala said it was important for journalists to be allowed to visit such programmes so that they can “tell the world the success stories behind these high scary walls.”

Seven decades, countless milestones, Hippo Valley’s roots run deep

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Seven decades, countless milestones, Hippo Valley’s roots run deep

By Beatific GumbwandaIn 1956, a citrus plantation took root in the red soils of the Lowveld. Few could have imagined what it would one day become. Seventy years later, Hippo Valley Estates stands as proof of vision, resilience, and a lasting partnership between industry, community, and the land transformed from a small farming venture into the country’s sugarcane capital and a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s agroindustrial sector.The estate’s journey is the story of the Lowveld itself. From a modest citrus operation, Hippo Valley gradually turned to sugarcane and never looked back. Today, together with Triangle, it produces all the sugar consumed in Zimbabwe – a feat that began with 30,000 tonnes of sugar and has since grown to more than 200,000 tonnes each year.Hippo Valley Estates did not just grow cane; it grew a town. Chiredzi, the busy administrative and commercial centre of southern Masvingo Province, owes much of its existence to the estate. Thousands of workers and their families settled in and around the town over the decades, creating demand for housing, schools, health services, and shops. The effect can be seen everywhere, from the small businesses that supply the estate’s operations to the retail traders who depend on the spending power of its workforce.Outgrower farmers have also been key to the estate’s growth. As Chief Executive Officer Tendai Masawi said during the celebrations, smallholder and commercial farmers deliver between 45 and 50 percent of the sugar Hippo Valley produces.“Without their support, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” Masawi said.Beyond the cane fields, Hippo Valley’s reach extends into the social life of the Lowveld. Over the decades, the estate has invested in modern medical facilities, schools, and sports infrastructure for its workers and nearby communities. Chiredzi General Hospital, which serves a large part of the province including Hippo Valley employees and their families, has benefited from the estate’s corporate social responsibility programmes. The Chiredzi Police District Headquarters and several health institutions across Masvingo Province have also received support.Within the estate itself, Hippo Valley has built worldclass amenities, including one of Zimbabwe’s finest golf courses, as well as leisure facilities like Nhongo Lodge and the Hippo Valley Country Club, which have helped make the Lowveld a tourism destination.To mark the milestone, Hippo Valley Estates, a subsidiary of Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe, held a sports gala at Chishamiso Stadium, where employees and stakeholders competed in various sporting activities. The celebrations ended with a fourhour live performance by Sungura musician Alick Macheso, bringing thousands together for a night of music and thanks.Speaking at the event, Masawi paid tribute to the workers who have been the driving force behind the estate’s growth.“I was informed that on the 15th of March 1956, Hippo Valley Estates was born, and it began as a citrus plantation, which later converted to sugarcane, and from there, we never looked back,” he said.“We want to give thanks to our employees and their families, as well as the facilities that were established by Hippo Valley. We have clinics, schools, sporting facilities and houses. And not forgetting the farmers who always deliver 45 to 50 percent of the sugar we produce,” Masawi added.Hippo Valley Estates Chairman Advocate Canaan F. Dube struck a reflective note, honouring the generations whose dedication built the institution.“Seventy years ago, a vision was planted in the Lowveld soil. Today, we celebrate the harvest of that vision and honour the generations whose dedication has shaped Hippo Valley Estates into the institution it is today,” Dube said.He noted that the estate’s growth had been powered by new ideas, resilience, and strong partnerships, and that community remained at the heart of everything.“Our journey is deeply intertwined with the communities around us. Their partnership has enabled growth, livelihoods and opportunity across the Lowveld, for which we remain grateful,” Dube said.As Hippo Valley enters its eighth decade, the estate faces both old and new challenges – including changing weather, pressure on water in the Lowveld’s irrigation network, and the shifting dynamics of Zimbabwe’s sugar industry. Yet its 70year record offers reason for confidence: a company that started with citrus and built a city around sugar is unlikely to be easily shaken.For the thousands of families, farmers, and businesses whose lives are tied to Hippo Valley’s operations, the anniversary is not just a company milestone. It is a shared celebration of a community that grew, quite literally, from the soil up.

All set for Old Mutual High Schools Quiz Provincial Competitions

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All set for Old Mutual High Schools Quiz Provincial Competitions

By Staff ReporterHARARE – The stage is set for the Old Mutual National High Schools Quiz provincial competitions, with the remaining seven provinces set to battle it out for a place at the national finals following the successful completion of the first round in Manicaland, Masvingo, and Matabeleland South on May 29, 2026.The upcoming provincial finals are scheduled as follows: On June 5, Mashonaland Central will compete at Bradley High School, Matabeleland North at Gebhuza High School in Hwange, and Mashonaland East at Waddilove High School in Marondera. On June 12, Bulawayo will host its finals at Montrose High School, the Midlands at Anderson High School in Gweru, and Mashonaland West at Chikangwe High School in Karoi. Harare will bring the provincial round to a close on June 19 at Prince Edward School.In the provinces where competitions have already been held, the following schools have secured their places in the national finals. In Manicaland Province, Nyanga High Marist Brothers, Vhengere High School, and St Faith’s High School emerged victorious. Masvingo Province will be represented by St Anthony’s High School, Pamushana High School, and Zimuto High School. In Matabeleland South Province, the qualifying schools are St Mary’s High School in Beitbridge, Mtshabezi High School, and Fountain College.Last year, more than 326 schools entered the competition at zonal level before progressing through provincial knockouts. From that highly competitive field, ten schools ultimately secured spots on the national stage. At the 2025 finals, Fletcher High School secured fourth place and walked away with US$1,000, while Pamushana High School claimed third place and received US$3,000. St Anthony’s High School earned second place together with US$5,000 in prize money, while Marist Brothers Nyanga once again demonstrated their dominance by clinching first place and taking home US$7,000, securing their fourth consecutive national title. In addition to cash prizes, learners from the topperforming schools also received laptops, smartphones, iPads, trophies, and medals.Old Mutual Zimbabwe’s Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive, Lillian Mbayiwa, said the quiz continues to grow because it speaks to the potential within Zimbabwean learners.“The Old Mutual National High Schools Quiz continues to grow because it speaks to the potential that exists within Zimbabwean learners. Beyond competition, this initiative is about empowering young people with knowledge, confidence, and exposure that can positively shape their futures. As Old Mutual, we remain committed to investing in education because we believe it is one of the most powerful tools for national development,” said Mbayiwa.This year, participating learners can look forward to a holistic development experience that extends beyond the quiz competition itself. In addition to financial literacy sessions, learners will benefit from career guidance workshops, discussions on drug and substance abuse awareness, and mentorship opportunities from Old Mutual leadership.By incorporating these enrichment programmes into the quiz platform, Old Mutual seeks to nurture wellrounded young leaders who are academically strong, financially literate, socially responsible, and better prepared to navigate the challenges of the modern world. Schools wishing to participate are encouraged to engage their provincial coordinators for registration and further competition details.

2 Masvingo MPs, 64 others dragged to ConCourt over term extension bid

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2 Masvingo MPs, 64 others dragged to ConCourt over term extension bid

By Staff ReporterA legal storm hit Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Court on June 1, 2026, as ordinary citizens, most of them losing opposition parliamentary candidates from the 2023 elections, moved to block what they call an attempt by Members of Parliament to extend their own time in office, potentially giving themselves an extra two years in power by suspending elections.At the centre of the dispute is the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which would stretch Parliament’s term from five years to seven years and scrap direct presidential elections, replacing them with an electoral college made up of MPs who would choose the president. The Bill has already gone through public consultations and is currently awaiting its second reading in Parliament.Sources close to the legal proceedings indicate that about 66 individuals have separately dragged 66 MPs to the Constitutional Court over the proposed amendment. Among them are two MPs from Masvingo province, Davis Marapira of Zaka Central and Clemence Chiduwa of Zaka South.TellZim News has seen several of the applications. Among the applicants and their respondent MPs are Lovemore Kuwakumire, Buto Nkomo, and Micheal Musundire, who have taken on Leslie Mhangwa (Chinhoyi), Dingimuzi Phuti (Bulilima), and Felix Mhona (Chikomba East) respectively. Revai Makaure is challenging Clemence Chiduwa (Zaka South), while Murandu Beauty has sued Meeky Jaravaza (Zvishavane-Ngezi). Peter Imbayarwo has filed against Davis Marapira (Zaka Central), and Kevin Daniel Paradza is up against July Moyo (Redcliff). Other cases include Tambara Casper versus Chido Sanyatwe (Nyanga North), Juliet Nyarai Manyame versus Brown Ndlovu (Vungu), Simon Mugoni versus Edmore Samambwa (Zhombe), Morgan Moyana versus Angelina Gata (Mutema-Musikavanhu), Peter Chauruka versus Shakemore Wellington Timburwa (Chegutu West), and Alluwis Zhou versus Fred Moyo (Zvishavane-Runde).Each application is accompanied by a standard notice that the respondents 10 days to respond failure which the case will proceed as an unopposed application.“Take notice that the Applicant intends to apply to the Constitutional Court at Harare for an order in terms of the Draft Order annexed to this notice and that the accompanying affidavit/s and documents will be used in support of the application. If you intend to oppose this application you will have to file a Notice of Opposition, in Form CCZ 2 together with one or more opposing affidavits, with the Registrar of the Constitutional Court at Harare within 10 (ten) days after the date on which this notice was served upon you. You will also have to serve a copy of the Notice of Opposition and affidavit/s on the Applicant at the address for service specified below. If you do not file an opposing affidavit within the period specified above, this application will be set down for hearing in the Constitutional Court at Harare without further notice to you and will be dealt with as an unopposed application.” Read the applicationsEach application is brought under Section 85 of the Constitution and Rule 26(2) of the Constitutional Court Rules 2025. A legal expert following the cases noted: “Section 85 lets any person approach the court when a right in the Bill of Rights is threatened. These voters are saying the right to vote is under threat.”The core claim is blunt. The applicants argue the amendment would fundamentally change how Zimbabweans choose their president and how long their MPs serve. Recently, Chiredzi Central MP Ropafadzo Makumire said his term will end in 2028. He said if the proposed amendment passes, he will return to his electorate to seek their guidance.“My term ends in 2028. If the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 passes, I will go back to the people who elected me. If they tell me to step down, I will step down. I can only proceed if they ask me to continue,” said Makumire.

Rtd General Rugeje donates goods worth US$50,000 to Silveira Mission Hospital

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Rtd General Rugeje donates goods worth US$50,000 to Silveira Mission Hospital

By Staff ReporterBIKITA – Retired Army General Engelbert Rugeje has today (June 2) donated goods worth US$50,000 to Silveira Mission Hospital in Bikita District, a gesture that comes from a son of the soil giving back to his community. He has called upon other locals, both at home and abroad, to contribute whatever they can towards the development of the area.Rugeje, who hails from Bikita District, handed over the donation to the hospital administration in a brief ceremony held at the mission this morning. The goods include medical supplies, heaters, injections, protective clothing and other consumables aimed at improving healthcare delivery at the rural facility.Speaking during the handover, Rtd Gen Rugeje said he was pleased to have managed to bring something to his home area and urged others to follow suit.“I urge others, especially those who hail from this area, to come and add to what we have done. For our community to develop, it needs healthy people, and to be healthy you need access to health services. So, we know there are others in Zimbabwe and those abroad; we call upon them to do whatever little they can,” said Rugeje.He noted that the challenges facing Bikita community and Silveira Mission Hospital are not limited to medication shortages alone. He highlighted the poor state of roads as a critical issue.“The road from the main highway to the hospital should be tarred to allow easy movement of ambulances carrying patients. I once spoke to people who are responsible for roads in government to help us and will continue pushing them,” he said.Rugeje, who completed his secondary education at Silveira Mission, revealed that he has been the mission’s patron since 1990. He said being a patron does not mean just cutting ribbons and sitting at the high table.“Being a patron does not mean you are invited to cut ribbons and sit at the high table giving speeches. You have to be a father figure who provides for the family. I have been donating goods to this mission since 1990,” he said.Receiving the donation on behalf of the hospital, the medical superintendent Dr Zvikomborero Mugwenjedzi said the gift had come at a right time.Speaking at the handover, a community member identified as Mr Tichaurawa thanked General Rugeje for the kind gesture and said locals should ensure they also benefit from programmes such as nurse recruitment.“We thank General Rugeje for the donation because every area is developed by its own people. We appeal to the authorities to make sure that during the recruitment of trainee nurses, they also prioritise locals who will then serve the local community,” said Tichaurawa.General Rugeje served in the Zimbabwe National Army for decades before retiring. He is known for his philanthropic work, particularly in his home district of Bikita.

Masvingo City Councillors at odds over ‘uneven development’

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Masvingo City Councillors at odds over ‘uneven development’

By Staff ReporterMASVINGO – A debate ensued during Masvingo City full council meeting after two councillors from the city’s northern suburbs accused the local authority of concentrating development in highdensity areas across Mucheke River, while their wards where ‘most revenue is generated continue to be neglected’.Ward 9 Councillor Bernad Muchokwa and Ward 10 Councillor Sengerayi Manyanga, whose wards cover Masvingo town, Rhodene, Zimre Park, Eastvale, Eastlea and 4 Brigade Headquarters, expressed frustration over what they described as a deliberate bias in the allocation of projects.Muchokwa listed several projects that had been completed or were underway in the highdensity suburbs of Mucheke, Rujeko and Runyararo, while nothing similar had been done on the northern side of the city.“We constructed Rujeko Secondary School, a swimming pool in Runyararo, maternity wings at Runyararo and Runyararo North West Clinics, and now council is proposing to build a school in Runyararo and another in Runyararo West. But this side of town, where most revenue comes from, is getting nothing,” said Muchokwa.He said his ward had appealed for a fruit and vegetable market and for public toilets, but no action had been taken.“We appealed for a fruit and vegetable market, but up to now nothing has been done. We are appealing for toilets, but we aren’t getting them. Yet the swimming pool and maternity wings across Mucheke did not take time. Why is development concentrated across Mucheke?” he asked.Councillor Manyanga added that the two wards had only three government schools, Victoria High, Victoria Junior and Hellen McGie Primary, which are being flooded by learners from across Mucheke who prefer those institutions over schools in their own areas.“We only have three schools, and we appealed to council to construct another school that meets the standards of the three already existing because we have seen that from Rank (Ward 1) to Ward 8, all the learners prefer to come to this side. We even appealed for council to allow Hellen McGie to extend and build uprising buildings to meet the demand,” said Manyanga.Responding sharply, Masvingo City Mayor Aleck Tabe told the two councillors that they should not complain because their side received expensive services that highdensity residents can only dream of.“You shouldn’t be complaining. I don’t want to say much, but I am sure you are aware that in Rhodene there are no potholes. If roads are damaged, we repair them, and tarring is expensive. But in Mucheke we use gravel to repair damaged roads. So don’t complain,” said Tabe.Deputy Mayor Daniel Mberikunashe weighed in, arguing that comparing the two sides of the city was unfair and that the northern suburbs could simply lobby for a school through proper channels if land is available.“Some other things cannot be compared. Let them apply that we have 200 or 300 square metre stands in Rhodene and see if it’s possible. So we should avoid comparing because there is a reason why the planners said this side should be for people of this level. There are a lot of people in Mucheke, and a lot of money comes from there,” said Mberikunashe.He said there were no dusty roads in Rhodene and threatened that if they continue comparing then councilors from the southern side would resolve to start developing that side until it matches the standards of ward 9 and 10. “If you want a school, just lobby through the planning department so that if there is space, you get one. If we talk of roads, they drive from Rhodene up to here with clean cars, no dust. But look at us from Mucheke. Even if we look at those who owe council money, it’s this side. So we shouldn’t compare, because we will then say all development should go to Mucheke until we have roads like Rhodene.”

From Rejection to Stardom: How a Grade Six Soccer Certificate Unlocked a Premier League Career

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From Rejection to Stardom: How a Grade Six Soccer Certificate Unlocked a Premier League Career

By Tadiwa ShunjeMASVINGO – When her Grade Seven results fell short of the entry requirements for Seke 1 High School, Priviledge Magagani’s future seemed uncertain. But her mother refused to give up. Armed with a single piece of paper, a certificate naming her the best Grade Six soccer player at Mberi Primary School, she convinced the school to give her daughter a chance. Today, Magagani is a second-year Social Work student at Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University and one of the most exciting players in the Zimbabwe Women Premier Soccer League.Now 23, Magagani has become a household name in the country’s topflight women’s football. Known for her blistering pace, twofooted ability, and relentless work ethic, she is widely regarded as one of the best wingers in the league. Her nickname, “Chimudhudhu” (the speedy one), follows her everywhere she plays a tribute to the speed that leaves defenders trailing.Magagani currently plays for Rufaro Starlets Queens FC in the Zimbabwe Women Premier Soccer League (ZWPSL) and balances her football career with university studies.She recalls how her mother’s persistence changed everything. “Seke 1 wanted learners with 12 units, and my results were lower than that. My mother took my certificate to the school and showed them that I played soccer. They prioritised football there, so they gave me a chance,” said Magagani.That opportunity became the foundation of both her academic and sporting career. At Seke 1 High School, she balanced schoolwork with competitive football before earning a scholarship to Rufaro High School, where she completed both her O and A Level studies while continuing to play regularly.She said football opened doors she never imagined possible. “I wouldn’t be here without soccer. It gave me school, and school gave me options. Now I’m trying to make both count,” she said.Magagani’s competitive nature pushed her to work harder at every stage. “I don’t like losing. Even at training, if someone beats me, I want to come back stronger. People started saying I run faster than the ball, and that’s how the nickname came,” she said.Her speed and ability to use both feet comfortably have made her one of the team’s most versatile players. She can operate as a left winger, right attacker, or left back depending on the team’s needs. “Coach puts me wherever there is a gap. Left, right, back, or forward – as long as I’m on the pitch, I will work for the team,” she said.One of her standout achievements came in 2022 when she scored six goals in a Northern Region tournament and finished as the competition’s top goal scorer, even though her side lost to Black Rhinos earlier in the league season.Now playing in the country’s premier women’s league, Magagani hopes to cement a regular starting place at Rufaro Starlets while helping the club finish strongly this season. “My target is for the team to finish in the top 10, and personally I want to score more goals because I only have one so far,” she said.Balancing university studies, training sessions, and matches has not been easy, but Magagani believes education remains important for her future beyond football. “Soccer doesn’t last forever. My degree is my backup plan. On the field there are injuries and challenges, but I stay focused unless it’s something serious. I always want to be there when my team wins and we celebrate together,” said Magagani.Rufaro Starlets coach Langton Giwa praised Magagani’s determination and versatility, describing her as an important player in the squad this season.

GZU, MaRODO partner to tackle youth mental health challenges

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GZU, MaRODO partner to tackle youth mental health challenges

By Staff ReporterGreat Zimbabwe University (GZU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Masvingo Root of Development Organization Trust (MaRODO) in a move aimed at strengthening mental health support, research and community outreach programmes for young people in Masvingo Province.The agreement, signed on May 18, 2026 brings together the university’s academic expertise and MaRODO’s community-based youth initiatives under the Helping Everyone Achieve Robust Thoughts and Souls (HEARTS) programme.The initiative seeks to address the growing mental health challenges affecting young people, including depression, drug and substance abuse, anxiety and suicide.GZU Registrar Dr Sinikiwe Gwatidzo signed the agreement on behalf of the university, while MaRODO founder and executive director Acknowledge Mawere represented the youth-led organisation.Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mawere emphasised the importance of prioritising mental health in national development efforts.“Everything begins with the mind. Mental health is foundational to human wellbeing, productivity, peace and development. We are building a generation where asking for help is accepted, where speaking out is normalized and where emotional vulnerability is not viewed as weakness. Through partnerships such as this one, we envision a Masvingo Province with zero suicide cases and reduced crime linked to mental health challenges,” said Mawere.Mawere appealed to development partners, corporates, researchers, non-governmental organisations and well-wishers to support the initiative.“MaRODO is not merely youth-led, but results-driven and impact-driven. Investing in mental health is not an expense; it is an investment in peace, productivity, human capital and national development,” he said.GZU Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Business Development and Industrialisation Professor Marian Tukuta said the partnership should go beyond ceremonial commitments and result in meaningful programmes that positively impact communities.She also commended the Julius Nyerere School of Social Sciences, which will oversee the collaboration, for actively pursuing partnerships with community-based organizations that work directly with young people.The partnership comes at a time when mental health concerns among youths are increasingly becoming a national issue, particularly in urban communities and tertiary institutions. Stakeholders in the health and education sectors have raised alarm over the rise in substance abuse and mental health-related cases affecting young people across Zimbabwe.Through the HEARTS initiative, the two institutions aim to promote a mentally healthy and resilient youth population by providing psychosocial support, mental health education, research opportunities and improved access to affordable care services. The programme will target schools, communities and tertiary institutions throughout Masvingo Province.GZU will provide academic and technical support to the programme including training peer educators, supporting research projects and encouraging student participation in community outreach activities. The university will also make selected facilities, including lecture rooms, innovation hubs and libraries, available for joint programmes and engagements.MaRODO, on the other hand, will lead community outreach programmes and coordinate the training of youth peer educators. The organisation also plans to establish youth empowerment hubs that will serve as safe spaces for counselling, mentorship and resilience-building activities for young people.In addition, the organisation will spearhead advocacy campaigns and digital awareness initiatives aimed at reducing stigma surrounding mental health. Working together with GZU, MaRODO will also help translate academic research into practical community interventions in line with Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 framework.The two institutions are also expected to jointly host workshops, leadership seminars, mentorship programmes and mental health awareness campaigns designed to strengthen youth wellbeing and community resilience..

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