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Vaiti VeShoko releases single collection

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By Tavonga Munyanyi

Shurugwi-based Methodist in Zimbabwe Choral Group, Vaiti VeShoko, recently released a singles collection with three tracks namely Tofara Tasangana, Ndibatei Ruoko and Ndinewe.
The tracks are already trending on social media giving all Methodist music lovers a good Gospel treat.
Speaking to TellZim Vaiti VeShoko Choral Group Spokesperson Nyasha Chida said the collection was aimed at preaching and spreading the word of God to many through Gospel music.
“This collection is a strategic tool for enhancing evangelism. We have seen that music is an effective way of spreading the word of God as it reaches many,” said Chida.
Chida expressed his excitement about the collection stating that he believed it would go a long way in building the group’s brand, as he expressed his gratitude to fans for the support that keeps them going.
“I give thanks to our fans for their unwavering support towards our music, we are nothing without them. We feel we have an obligation to give good music to our fans and that keeps us going despite challenges,” said Chida
He said the group was already working on an album that will be released soon and had assurance from their sponsors, though the three singles will not be part of the album.
“The release of our new album with brand new songs is now imminent, according to our sponsors’ assurance and the tracks in this single collection are not part of the new album,” said Chida.
Chida thanked the Choral Group’s Advisor Ruth Ndana for her continued moral support and contribution towards the Group’s success in the music industry.
He said they were looking forward to collaborate with famous artists and to produce videos for the benefit of their fan base.
The Choral Group was established in 2015 and launched its first album in 2022 titled ‘The Genesis of Excellence’ which comprised of seven tracks namely ‘How Excellent’, Nguva yakanakisa, Narini, Hakusi Kurema , Dombotipai meso, Tipei Simba.
Vaiti VeShoko is comprised of twelve members namely Nyasha Chida, Leslie Meredzi, Prosper Bunu, Francis Mabasa, Daniel Chigede, Takura Ncube, Harmard Ncube, Panashe Hurasha, Tanya Maccathey and Advisor Ruth Ndana.

RAFYTT trains Masvingo youths on integrity

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By Beverly Bizeki

Real Agenda For Youth Transformation Trust (RAFYTT) recently trained 40 young people under its Youth Social Accountability and Inclusion for Development (SAID) project at Mucheke Hall in Masvingo on integrity as the organisation targets achieving less corruption, improving transparency and accountability in the country.
Speaking at the event, RAFYTT Programs Manager Rejoice Maridza said the programme was meant to empower young people in decision making as this was the most affected group.
“The Youth Said project aims at educating and empowering young people on issues of integrity and accountability in governance and civic engagements. Our aim is to empower young people in understanding the importance of participating in decision making as they are the future leaders. It is important for them to understand values of fostering a just and equitable society. Young people need to understand the importance of integrity hence our objective on increasing awareness on accountability among young people,” said Maridza.
One of the youths who attended the training, Vimbai Chetse said the event was eye opening to her as a person with disability as she learnt about the importance of contributing to governance issues.
“Through this meeting I have learnt about some of our shortfalls as youths and PWDs, we often forego attending important events such as budget consultations among other things. As PWDs we have the responsibility to make sure our voices are heard by speaking up and standing for our rights,” said Chetse.
Another youth Moreblessing Mapanzure said the programme enlightened young people on important channels of communication to use when dealing with transparency issues amongst the communities they live in.
“We have been taught about the channels of communication and how to amplify our voices as youth in the fight against corruption, a vice that disadvantages us as young people. These awareness campaigns are important for us as most youth often fall victim to societal vices in society due to lack of knowledge,” said Mapanzure.

Artisanal miners bludgeon environmentalist

By Tinaani Nyabereka

Shurugwi- A 35-year-old man is lucky to be alive after he was assaulted by artisanal miners following an altercation involving the latter leaving open pits posing a threat to animals.
The incident occurred on September 7, 2024, around 6:00 am at the Chiundura Claim in Musasa, Shurugwi.
Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident and called upon members of the public to desist from using violence when solving problems.
“Authorities are currently investigating the incident where a 35 year old man was injured by artisanal miners in an altercation after the victim confronted them for leaving mine pits uncovered. The police are urging the public to avoid resorting to violence in resolving disputes, emphasizing that such actions can lead to severe injuries or even death,” Mahoko said.
Circumstances are that the victim, Tafadzwa Siyabonga and his 32-year-old wife confronted Alphonse Rushava, 36, an artisanal miner, and his four associates accusing them of not covering their mine pits, which posed a risk to local livestock.
The argument escalated when Siyabonga struck Rushava on the leg with an axe. In response, Rushava and his companions attacked Siyabonga, striking him with an axe on the head and an iron bar on the leg.
Siyabonga sustained serious injuries but managed to survive the assault.

Anglican Diocese of Masvingo to host golf tournament

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By Rangarirai Shanyurai

The Anglican Diocese of Masvingo is set to host a fundraising golf tournament at Masvingo Golf Club on October 19, 2024 to raise funds for the construction of a house for the Diocese’s Bishop.
Speaking to TellZim News, one of the event conveners Faith Mazana said the tournament aims to bring together golf players and community members who are eager to contribute funds for the project.
“The event is open to golfers from surrounding cities and towns in Zimbabwe. It is intended to raise funds for the construction of one of the four sections approximately at US$10 000. The house has four sections designed to accommodate bishops and clergy during visits. One of these sections will be named ‘Golf Section’ in honour of the golfers.
“Registration of the Fourball Betterball format requires an individual to pay US$25 and US$100 per team. The tournament provides an opportunity for locals to engage in competition while supporting the church’s initiatives,” said Mazana.
She also said there will be exhibition spaces for corporates, sponsorship and partnership opportunities.
The current Diocese Bishop of Masvingo is Bishop Reverend Osiward Mapika.
This year’s edition is running under the theme ‘Except the Lord built the house, they labor in vain those who build it’ (Psalms 127 vs 1).
Those who wish to participate in this year’s edition can get in touch with Mazana on +263 773044920.

When Church becomes business!

By Rev Dr Isiah Dhliwayo

The core business of the church is to spread the Gospel of Christ through preaching, teaching, prayer, worship, pastoral care and evangelism.
Misconceptions about serving the church often stem from misconceptions about defining the church. Many people view local churches like small businesses where the pastor is the CEO and the people are the customers.
The transformation of the church into a business entity is a complex phenomenon with various contributing factors.My point is to examine our church bodies to see if they resemble a business, operationally, to the detriment of the body of Christ.
The Bible describes the church as a body, not a business.The church is not called to conform their services to the preferences of the people. Instead, the people are called to be conformed by the grace of God into the image of Christ. All people. All nations. Not some.
According to Scripture, the church has a three-fold purpose: the exaltation of God, the edification of the saints, and the evangelization of the world.
The church doesn’t offer services. The church serves. People aren’t called to consume. They are called to repent, believe, and follow Christ. They are called to freely give what they have freely received.
But when the church becomes a business, it can be very tempting for pastors with control issues to start ordering people around like bosses managing employees.”
Accordingly Jesus said, “Stop making my Father’s house a place of business.” These words ought to put the fear of the Lord into every pastor and ministry leader; they should cause those of us leading churches to sincerely evaluate our approach.-:that of turning churches into business.
The Bible describes the church as a body, not a business. The business of the body is to make faithful disciples not happy customers.Catering our product to the preferences of our customers may be good business but it has no place in the church.

Herein,I will highlight some ways in which this transformation has occurred:

  1. Commercialization of Religion: In some cases, churches have adopted business-like practices to attract more followers and increase revenue. This can manifest in the form of selling religious merchandise, organizing expensive conferences and events, or treating church services as a product to be marketed.
  2. Prosperity Gospel: The prosperity gospel movement emphasizes material wealth as a sign of God’s favor. Some churches promote the idea that financial success is a reward for faith, encouraging followers to donate generously with the promise of material blessings in return. This approach can sometimes prioritize financial gain over spiritual growth.
  3. Real Estate and Investments: Some churches have become involved in real estate ventures or financial investments to generate income beyond traditional donations. This can lead to a focus on financial growth and asset acquisition, resembling more of a business mindset.
  4. Mega-Churches: Mega-churches, which are characterized by their large congregations and elaborate facilities, often require significant financial resources to operate. To sustain their operations and growth, mega-churches may adopt business strategies for fundraising, marketing, and administration.
  5. Corporate Structure: Some churches have adopted a corporate structure with hierarchies, boards of directors, and professional management teams. While this can improve efficiency and organization, it may also introduce a business-oriented culture that prioritizes financial metrics and strategic planning over spiritual matters.
  6. Focus on Profitability: Increasingly, some churches prioritize financial success and profitability, measuring their effectiveness in terms of metrics like attendance numbers, revenue, and market share. This focus on financial performance can shift the church’s priorities away from spiritual guidance and community service.
  7. Tax-exempt Status: The tax-exempt status of churches can sometimes lead to financial abuses or questionable financial practices. Without the same level of financial transparency and accountability required of for-profit businesses, some churches may operate in ways that prioritize financial gain over their religious mission.
  8. Technology and Media: Churches have leveraged technology and media to reach larger audiences and increase their influence. While these tools can be powerful for spreading their message, they can also be used in ways that prioritize revenue generation and fundraising over spiritual growth.
    It’s important to note that not all churches have adopted business practices, and many religious organizations maintain a strong focus on spiritual values, service to their communities, and the well-being of Christians.

One dies, three injured in Ngundu Tanganda accident

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By Meditation Mposi

A man from Ngundu died on the spot after he was involved in a car accident along Ngundu-Tanganda Road on September 7, 2024.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the accident and death of Richard Makwazvure (37) from Ngundu Growth Point.
“I confirm the death of Makwazvure who died in a car crash along the Ngundu-Tanganda Road. We urge drivers to drive attentively and follow all road instructions,” said Dhewa.
Circumstances are that on September 7 at around 2200 hours at the 100km peg along Ngundu-Tanganda Road, Emmanuel Munyanyi (44) of Chiredzi was driving a truck with a trailer carrying sugarcane.
Munyanyi then encroached to the right lane of the road hitting the hind wheel of Mkwazvure’s car which was driving due East with five passengers on board. Mkwazvure’s car went offroad, overturned and landed on the roof.
Mkwazvure died on the spot and his body was taken to Chiredzi General Hospital. Three passengers sustained minor injuries and were taken to the same hospital.
The Ngundu-Tanganda road has become a hotspot in Masvingo province as many accidents are recorded on the road time and again.
On June 28, another accident occurred at the 101km peg along the same road when a pirate taxi driver, Simbarashe Muparuri (25), lost control of the vehicle and overturned twice. Muparuri sustained head injuries and died on his way to Chiredzi General Hospital. Four other passengers were injured in the accident while two of them sustained serious injuries.
On July 22, another fatal road traffic accident occurred at the 70kilometre peg along Ngundu-Tanganda road in which eight people died while two others were injured.
A Toyota pro-box with nine passengers on board veered of the road and overturned several times throwing all passengers out before landing on its right side.

Chiredzi assailant kills two sisters

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By Rangarirai Shanyurai

In what could be one of the most heartrending incidents, two sisters from Munorwei Village, Chief Gudo in Chiredzi died one after the other in hospital after they were stabbed by a man from the same village over an undisclosed matter on September 1, 2024 while coming from Checheche Business Centre.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the death of the two sisters, Marurumwei and Itai Sambana from Musarevana Village, Ndali in Chiredzi as well as the arrest of Misheck Mutende in connection with the murder case.
“I confirm the death of Marurumwei and Itai who were stabbed to death by Mutende over an undisclosed issue. We urge members of the public to solve disputes peacefully and encourage individuals to refrain from carrying weapons,” said Dhewa.
Circumstances are that at around 1800 hours on the day in question, Marurumwei and Itai were coming from Checheche Business Centre together with Elizabeth Mavhu (31) when Mutende followed them.
Mavhu left the two sisters lying along a footpath, drunk and after about an hour she heard voices crying for help and rushed to the scene. She saw one Disperse Mukwama (22) wrestling Mutende who was holding a knife and the two sisters lying unconscious.
Mavhu managed to disarm Mutende and some villagers came to help with a scotch-cart to assist the two sisters. The two were taken to Sangwe Clinic for medical examination where it was noted that they had sustained swollen heads. They were both transferred to St Peters then Parirenyatwa Hospital for medical attention.
Unfortunately, on September 6 at around 0730 hours Itai passed away, followed by Marurumwei the next day.
Mutende was later arrested by Chikombedzi police.

Masvingo out standing cops honoured

By Rangarirai Shanyurai

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Masvingo Province has honoured its outstanding cops by awarding 36 officers for hard work and diligence at a ceremony held at Phoenix Club on September 11, 2024.
The awards, which were presented by Officer Commanding Masvingo Province Commissioner Crispen Charumbira honored cops who displayed exemplary leadership, courage, and commitment in upholding law and order in the region.
The categories included Station of the Year Award that was scooped by ZRP Muchakata, General Awards, Police Constabulary Category and Women’s Networking Award that went to Sergeant Majekwa from Chiredzi.
The cops received recognition for their outstanding work in solving high profile cases like armed robbery, murder, theft of cars and unlawful entry during the year 2024. They received certificates, cash and t-shirts during the event as a token of appreciation for their performances.
The awards were sponsored by Solten, a Microfinance Organisation based in Masvingo but has branches around the country.
The award ceremony was attended by senior police officers, Solten Finance, Old Mutual among others.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ascom Charumbira said the gathering was a moment to honor remarkable accomplishments of exceptional police officers and to appreciate collaborative endeavors of the police force in partnership with the community.
“We have gathered to recognize the exceptional achievements of our outstanding police officers and acknowledge the collective efforts of our police service working together with the community
“We are exploring ways in which we could reduce crime and the partnership between police and members of the public helps in achieving the national vision 2030.
“Crime induces fear in the society and no investor will want to invest in an area with high crime rates. I am proud to say that Masvingo Province is safe for investment as shown by the dedication of our fellow police officers,” said Charumbira.
He said ZRP was making steps to deliver its mandate in line with its 2024 monitoring theme, ‘ZRP for peace and towards security national development’.
“We will not fail in providing security services for our communities. We are working diligently to establish a supportive environment that aligns with our theme and national targets
“The community’s ongoing support and involvement in policing are essential to realizing the presidential vision of collective nation-building. The active partnership and dedication of community members in various Community Policing Initiatives demonstrate their commitment to this cause,” Said Charumbira.
He thanked Solten Finance for supporting the event and urged officers to maintain the good work they were doing.
“We have gathered here today courtesy of Solten Finance. The financial institution has wholeheartedly gone all the way to support police activities and initiatives to motivate our members to continue delivering best practices in their work. I applaud such moral initiatives and I extend my profound gratitude to all who were involved in the exercise. It was not an easy accomplishment as they had to go through different difficult stages and processes to select the winners,” said Charumbira.
Business Against Crime Forum (BACFOZ) Vice Chairperson Saul Chin’anga who is also Solten Director said as one of the most prominent microfinance firms in Zimbabwe, they sponsored the event to promote police efficiency so that businesses operate in a peaceful environment.
“We are doing our business knowing that the operating environment is peaceful because we have efficient police. That is why we are one of biggest microfinance Zimbabwe with 23 branches,” said Chin’anga.

Teachers queue with villagers for water at 2 am

…. report late for work everyday, at times without bathing

….learners at risk as there is no portable water at school

By Brighton Chiseva

ZAKA – Teachers at Mukwirimba Primary School in Zaka have to queue from 2am everyday for water from an unprotected well, which is their only source, with three other villages.

Both learners and teachers from the school have their health hanging by a thread as the school has no portable water forcing learning activities to delay almost on daily basis as the teachers have to fetch water for domestic use from the unprotected well.

Sometimes the teachers have to return from the water point which is a few kilometres away from the school without the precious liquid, forcing them to report for duty without bathing due to water challenges, as they often get the chance to fetch the water only after 6am despite queuing for hours.

The school borehole, which used to be their water source is said to be pumping rusty water that cannot be used for any domestic use.

School head Matorevhu Haruzivishe confirmed the situation but could not comment further saying he was not allowed to speak to the media.

“Yes we have a water crisis here and we are trying our best to address the situation. However, I cannot comment further as we are not allowed to speak to the media,” said Haruzivishe.

Zaka District Schools Inspector Samson Chidzurira also confirmed the situation saying he saw a post on social media and went on to enquire from the school. He said he was going to refer the matter to the water and sanitation subcommittee and the school would be added to a list of those that require assistance once resources are availed.

Mauta Village Head Musiiwa Mauta in whose village the school is located confirmed the sad reality and called for immediate action from authorities saying if the situation persists, the school may be forced to close.

“Last week Friday, teachers reported for work around 9 am and they had failed to get water from the well. The well is overwhelmed because three villages are using the same water point so there is competition and they are forced to wake up around 2 am to go queue at the well.

“The school borehole which villagers also relied on is pumping rusty water that is not fit for human consumption,” said Mauta.

He went on to say that the problem started last year and some teachers had their valuables stolen from their quarters after they had gone to the well in the wee hours.

 He said three villages with a combined number of 140 households relied on the sole water point.

“The problem is a result of the low rainfall we have been receiving over the past years. Last year teachers from the same school lost cellphones and laptops to thieves who broke into their houses after they had gone to fetch water around 3 am.

“The well is currently watering three villages namely Mauta, Mauto and Tafirei with a combined total of 140 households excluding the teachers and their families. We call for the authorities to immediately intervene and save the situation before we record a disaster because the alternative source is Turwi River bordering Zaka and Bikita districts, which is about 5 kilometers from the school,” said Mauta.

A villager, Menford Mukodzi who also stays near the school said the situation was heart-rending as learners were being forced to bring water to school for drinking, and those who cannot end up drinking the rusty borehole water.

“Learners have to carry water to school and at times they fail because there will be none to carry from home. As kids at times when they are thirsty they end up sneaking during lessons and drink the rusty borehole water; we are worried over their health,” said Mukodzi.

One teacher who spoke anonymously said the situation was unbearable for villagers and worse for teachers whom he said at times spend more time at the well only to return home with empty buckets.

“People are struggling and the situation is even worse for us. We go to the well very early only to find a long queue of buckets from villagers and at times we return without any water as we will be rushing to get to work on time. At times we are forced to report for duty without bathing,” said the teacher.

Ward 5 Councillor Livison Makwanye who lives a few kilometres from the school said he was not aware of the situation and said he only got to know about it when  TellZim News posted it on social media platform X.

“I am not aware of the situation. I only got to know after your post and people started asking me about it. I have since tried to get hold of the school head but he is not reachable,” Makwanye said.

Zaka North MP Ophias Murambiwa who chairs the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Education also said he was not aware of the situation at the school but promised to look into it to find possible solutions.

“I wasn’t aware of the situation at that school and I’m only learning about it from you. I will enquire and see how best we can help them. However, that situation is not unique to that school as most schools have the same situation in Zaka North,” Murambiwa said.

Mukwirimba is located in a mountain range and usually receives normal to above-normal rainfall. The area also has a lot of indigenous Mukute, Mushuku and Muchakata trees which are synonymous with marshy areas. Due to the El Nino-induced drought however, the area received low rainfall leading to the water table going further down.

Masvingo female boxing judge shines in Zambia tournament

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By Perpetua Murungweni

A female boxing judge, who is also a teacher from Masvingo made history when she officiated at the prestigious Zambia Boxing Tournament which took place on August 17, 2024, as the only female judge.
Speaking to TellZim News, Tambudzai Gloria Dera said she was very excited to be one of the judges who officiated the tournament as it validates her hard work.
“The opportunity meant the world to me as it validates my hard work and dedication as well as expanding my horizon.
It broadens my perspectives in the boxing field.
“I am also happy that I was able to represent my country and other female judges worldwide, demonstrating our capabilities as a country as well as personal growth by adapting to new environments, challenges and fighters, further refining my judging skills,” said Dera.
Dera is 40 years old, married with 3 kids, and a high school teacher at Mutonhori High School in Zaka where she started as a boxing coach in 2015.
She then attended a coaching session in Bulawayo by Manny Fenendes from South Africa and in 2022 she attended a WBC and ABU convention in Vic falls where she graduated to be an International judge.
“Through this tournament, I’m hoping to break all stereotypes by showing that women can excel in male dominated fields like boxing. Through demonstrating professionalism, expertise and impartiality in judging. This opportunity has given me a chance to share knowledge and experience with other judges as well as addressing and overcoming gender biases in sport,” said Dera.
“I am also learning a lot of things from other boxers, coaches and ring officials. Team work and collaborating enhances creativity and a sense of accomplishment. Working with others exposed me to new skills, knowledge and experiences helping me to grow both personally and professionally,” said Dera.
Dera said other women who want to venture into boxing should remain neutral and believe in themselves.
“Women who want to do boxing have to remain neutral and believe in themselves; they don’t have to be intimidated by the male dominated industry. They need to stand up and break barriers, be prepared for criticism, develop a thick skin and learn from constructive criticism,” Dera added.