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Masvingo records sharp decline in human rights abuses

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Masvingo records sharp decline in human rights abuses

By TellZim Reporter

Masvingo Province has for the first time recorded a sharp decline in the number of human rights abuses recording only three cases in October 2025 out of a total of 116 cases recorded during the month.

According to the Zimbabwe Peace Project report for October 2025, the three cases related to Masvingo include forced displacement, physical assault and harassment as well as intimidation in Gutu and Mwenezi districts.

“In Gutu Ward 6, a woman living with a disability was forcibly displaced from her land by a traditional leader, highlighting violations of property rights and protections for vulnerable persons. In Mwenezi Ward 4, a male resident was accused of organizing the one million men march on 17 October and was assaulted by ZANU PF supporters, sustaining injuries, illustrating politically motivated violence and the suppression of civic participation.

“Additionally, in Gutu Ward 24, nurses at a medical facility were harassed and intimidated for accepting donated blankets without ZANU PF approval, demonstrating interference in professional and humanitarian activities,” reads a part of the report.

According to the report, the violations which include forced displacements, threats, physical assault and hate motivated violence affecting 2 531 individuals.

“In October 2025, ZPP documented a total of 116 human rights violations across the country, affecting 2,531 individuals, of whom 1,360 were female and 1,171 were male. Among these, 58 women and 51 men were persons with disabilities.

The violations recorded included gross abuses such as forced displacements, hate-motivated violence, threats, and physical assault.

“Additional infringements encompassed restrictions on freedom of assembly and association, curtailment of freedom of expression, unjustified arrests, and inequitable access to government aid and essential social services,” reads a part of the report

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Harare topped the violations with 38 cases largely linked to service delivery failures, followed by Mashonaland East (20), Manicaland (16), and Matabeleland North (13). Mashonaland Central and Midlands each recorded 8 violations, Mashonaland West and Bulawayo 5 each.

Zanu PF supporters accounted for 19.2 percent of the perpetrators, with the party’s leadership at various levels accounting for 12.1 percent. Local authorities contributed 16.5 percent while the Zimbabwe Republic Police and traditional leaders were counted as 15.2 percent and 9.8 percent of the violators respectively.

Other state actors, including school authorities and security personnel, together accounted for 11.5percent, while civilians unaffiliated with any institution represented 14.1percent. Members of the MDC-A were responsible for 0.7 percent of violations.

In April 2025, Masvingo topped the statistics with a shocking 300 percent increase in human rights violations from five recorded in March of the same year to 20 in April exposing a disturbing trend of systemic repression and abuse of power by those in offices.

In May 2025 Masvingo and Harare recorded the highest number of violations in May.

Provincially, Masvingo and Harare recorded the highest number of violations with 13 and 16 violations respectively.

Power FC ends four lions’ unbeaten run in season finale

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Power FC ends four lions’ unbeaten run in season finale

By Andrew Zhou

MASHAVA – Four Lions FC’s unbeaten season came to an end on Saturday after falling 1-0 to rivals Power FC in their final Division Two league match at Bere Grounds.

The newly-crowned champions suffered their first defeat in 18 matches, though they had already secured promotion to Division One before the fixture.

Power FC, who clinched third place with the victory, secured the win through defender Shawn Chisango’s second-half long-range strike.

Four Lions Coach Mahala Lonne acknowledged the defeat while maintaining pride in his team’s championship season.

“Credit where it’s due, Power FC came out with an energy we simply did not match today. The unbeaten run was an incredible achievement, and while it hurts to lose now, it does not take away from the title we’ve won,” Lonne told TellZim News.

Power FC head coach Maxwell Kwangwari described the victory as particularly satisfying after losing the first leg encounter.

“This win is huge for our fans and for the history books as it was our revenge match since we lost our first leg match away. We respect the Four Lions for their title win, but we were determined to show the league that they are not unbeatable,” said Kwangwari.

Team Manager Edson Maziti emphasized the significance of beating the champions for team morale.

“The boys showed heart today. We knew we had the potential to do this, and to achieve it in the final match is monumental for our club’s morale and future recruitment,” Maziti said.

When asked about promotion prospects, Maziti said ZIFA would decide which teams will be selected for playoffs or to be promoted into the division one league.”

Club Secretary Trywell Gwatinonga expressed appreciation for the community’s support throughout the season.

“The pride we feel is immense. The support from the stands was phenomenal, and this victory sends a clear signal that Power FC is a serious contender. We thank every fan and player for making this a memorable season,” said Gwatinonga.

Murray Theological College unveils 2026–2030 strategic masterplan

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Murray Theological College unveils 2026–2030 strategic masterplan

By Virginia Njovo

Murray Theological College recently launched its strategic masterplan, setting the stage for a new era in theological education and community engagement.

The unveiling coincided with the institution’s centenary celebrations at Morgenster Mission, marking 100 years of nurturing spiritual leadership under the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe.

During the celebrations, the college principal, Reverend Dr. Simbarashe Munamati, announced that the institution was now working with a four-year strategic masterplan aimed at delivering tangible results.

“The masterplan outlines ambitious goals to modernize facilities. We plan to build a new administration block that will include a lecture theatre and lecturers’ offices, expand student accommodation, acquire a college vehicle, and broaden our academic offerings to strengthen the college’s role as a hub for theological excellence in Southern Africa,” said Rev. Dr. Munamati.

He emphasized that the plan was not only about infrastructure but also about aligning theological training with contemporary challenges such as social justice, digital ministry, and community development.

He noted that the college will continue its memorandum of understanding with Reformed Church University, through which ministers pursue degrees. The pioneer class will graduate this December and is set to be licensed in February 2026.

Reflecting on the institution’s history, Rev. Dr. Munamati highlighted its growth over the decades.

“Founded in 1925, Murray Theological College began as a small school for evangelists, with Rev. Henry Murray (Snr) serving as its first lecturer. Over the years, it has grown into a respected institution employing both full-time and part-time lecturers, while also offering specialized training for clergy spouses. The college has produced generations of pastors, including its first graduate, Rev. Ezra Shumba, who entered ministry in the 1930s,” he said.

The masterplan also emphasizes inclusivity, with programs designed to empower women in ministry. In addition to traditional theological subjects such as Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology, and Missiology, women are offered courses in Home Economics, sewing, and homiletics, ensuring holistic preparation for service in both church and community.

Currently, with the assistance of the Synod and its partners, the seminary has managed to drill a 60-meter borehole, install solar systems at student hostels to provide 24-hour internet connectivity, construct new state-of-the-art ablution facilities, and acquire a Toyota GD6 vehicle.

The strategic masterplan positions Murray Theological College as a forward-looking institution, committed to producing leaders who are both spiritually grounded and socially responsive.

Brothers attack headman uncle in dispute over late mother’s belongings

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Brothers attack headman uncle in dispute over late mother’s belongings

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

MASVINGO – Two brothers from Bikita were dragged to court for allegedly assaulting their 62-year-old paternal uncle who is also a headman with a wooden axe handle after a confrontation over their late mother’s belongings that had remained undistributed for twelve years.

The brothers Jacob Chifire (48) and Simon Chifire (56) of Chifire Village appeared before Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura on November 26, 2025 who remanded them out of custody to December 5 for judgement.

It was the state’s case as presented by Liberty Hove that on September 2, the complainant, Daniel Chifire, visited Jacob’s homestead to notify him of an upcoming village meeting.

Jacob allegedly charged at him and struck him several times with a wooden axe handle for unknown reasons.

In his defense, Jacob told the court that his uncle had confronted him about their late mother’s belongings saying their uncle had no right to collect belongings because they should be handled by the late’s relatives

They argued that verbal exchange quickly turned violent, with Jacob allegedly striking his uncle multiple times with a wooden axe handle.

Simon told the court he rushed to the scene after hearing screams while cutting sticks at his nearby homestead.

Medical reports presented in court revealed that Daniel sustained multiple stab wounds leading to vital-organ damage, along with injuries to his head and right elbow.

The case adds to a rising trend of violent family disputes in the province related to traditional practices and inheritance matters. Last month in Mwenezi, three brothers allegedly murdered their sibling, Takesure Gwezuva, after a disagreement over conducting a bira ceremony.

In another incident earlier this year, a Gutu man, Munyaradzi Kasvina (27), was arrested for attempting to kill his two cousins with an axe following a misunderstanding that stemmed from a funeral.

Understanding Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in education : The nuts and bolts

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Understanding Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in education : The nuts and bolts

CPD refers to an ongoing process where teachers engage in learning

opportunities to enhance their professional knowledge ,skills,

and abilities. Continuous Professional 

 Development helps teachers stay updated with the latest trends, technologies and best practices in

teaching . It is not a one time event or a checkbox to be ticked of; it is a continuous process that practitioners should effectively engage in throughout their careers. Furthermore, it is a proactive approach to staying relevant and competitive in today’s fast-paced and ever evolving job market.The CPD framework in Zimbabwe aims 

to support teacher development,

improve pupils’ outcomes and ensures that every learner in receives a high – quality education, delivered in a positive and inclusive environment. In summary, CPD’s objectives are to:

• improve teachers’ pedagogical skills and knowledge in general and to master subject specific knowledge and expertise to develop and follow their professional career paths. 

. support teachers in delivering the Heritage- based curriculum effectively using the Continuous Professional cycle , approaches and resources provided in the school 

 . build stronger collaborative school-based learning communities to learn and develop together, creating a supportive school environment where teachers can share ideas, successes, challenges and innovative teaching approaches through Cluster sessions facilitated by CPD coordinators and school- based facilitators.

. engage in self-evaluation and reflection for professional growth; evaluating their knowledge and teaching skills, including instruction, questioning techniques, feedback and assessment for / of learning, helps teachers to become more aware and confident about how to improve those skills and take more control of their professional growth.

. Improve pupils’ learning outcomes 

Clearly, improving learner outcomes is the most important objective of CPD. When teachers improve their teaching skills, approaches and subject knowledge to deliver quality lessons, learners become more engaged and actively involved in making progress in respect of their learning.

The CPD Cycle

The Continuing Professional Development ( CPD) Cycle is a structured process which helps practitioners maintain and enhance their skills throughout their careers. It is a continuous cycle that ensures learning is purposeful, reflective and aligned with career growth. I present the CPD Cycle based on various sources.

Stage 1 : Needs Analysis 

For the assessment of teachers’ CPD needs, it is critical to identify and have a common understanding of the competences required by teachers to deliver more effectively.

At school level, teachers can use the CPD school progress form criteria to self evaluate and understand their CPD needs more clearly 

School heads can use the internal lesson supervision data to identify gaps which need to be addressed through staff development sessions.

Inspection findings at a local level can be used to inform the school based CPD plans.

Stage 2 

At this stage, a school sets SMART( Specific, Measurable, Achievable,Relevant and Time framed ) objectives for professional development. The CPD coordinators, TICs and School heads are required to choose relevant learning activities such as formal education, workshops, conferences or self directed research and proceed to develop a school CPD Plan. Care should be taken to review both the individual and School CPD Plan.

Stage 3 

This is normally referred to as the action stage where staff participate in planned learning activities and engage fully in the learning process and, subsequently, apply new knowledge and skills.

Stage 4

At this stage, the school documents CPD activities, including but not limited to notes, reflections and certificates.

Stage 5

This is normally the reflection stage where outcomes of the learning activities are evaluated. In addition, the impact of the new knowledge and skills on performance and career goals are assessed.

Stage 6

Here assessment of the effectiveness of learning activities is done. The school focuses on whether the learning objectives were met to inform further action.

Stage 7

This is the stage where new knowledge and skills are applied in real world scenarios. Teachers and school heads can share experiences with others to reinforce understanding and promote personal development.

The animal called CPD

Continuing Professional Development ( CPD) entails a range of activities including but not limited to:

(a). Workshops and training sessions 

Teachers need hands-on , interactive training on specific topics as per School CPD plan 

(b). Conferences and seminars 

These offer opportunities for teachers to learn from experts and network 

(c). Online courses and webinars 

Online learning platforms and webinars offer flexible, self paced learning opportunities for teachers 

(d). Peer mentoring and coaching 

Support from experienced colleagues will increase teachers’ confidence and upskilling .

(e). Action research and reflection 

Teachers reflect on their practice and identify areas for improvement .

How CPD contributes to future-proofing of careers

Apart from making staff stay up to date with current trends and advancements, CPD is about future-proofing one’s career. Staff are therefore required to foster a growth mindset, a mind that is open to change and adaptable to new challenges. CPD helps teachers to build a diverse and transferable skills set. In addition, CPD also contributes to future proofing careers by expanding professional networking and increases job satisfaction and fulfillment.

Masvingo ‘lightning’ village head speaks out on clamping incident

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Masvingo ‘lightning’ village head speaks out on clamping incident

By Staff Reporter

MASVINGO – The village head at the centre of a social media storm, who was allegedly linked to a lightning strike that unlocked his clamped car in Masvingo Town on Wednesday (November 26), has denied any knowledge of the unusual event, saying he was as shocked as everyone else by what happened.

The 36-year-old, who pleaded with TellZim News not to reveal his name, said he had parked his car at Tsungai Complex on the day and only learned about the incident upon his return.

“I parked my car and went to Commercial Centre to run some errands. On my return, I was informed by a worker from Exide battery shop at Glow Service Station that my car had been struck by lightning. I rushed there, thinking it had caught fire,” he said.

When he approached the parking area, he was met by a surprising scene, people had already gathered around his car and he feared for the worst.

“When I got closer, I saw people had gathered around my car. One man picked me up and ran towards Bob’s Tavern, shouting and praising me while more people followed. I managed to free myself and went back to my car to see what had happened,” the village head said.

It was only then that he noticed his car had been clamped, though the clamp was lying on the ground. 

“I removed the clamp, got in the car and started it. Since I thought the lightning had affected the car, I was happy that it started and I then drove off,” he said.

The village head told TellZim News he only later heard from witnesses that lightning had struck a brick wall on top of the building, and one of the falling bricks had hit the clamp locker, causing it to break open.

“I was equally shocked and don’t know what really happened. I only heard from people that the lightning struck a brick wall on top of the building and one brick hit the locker,” he said.

The village head denied having any confrontation with municipal officers and said he was unaware the car had been clamped until he saw the device on the ground.

“We never had any confrontation, people are lying. When I left the car I spoke to him and he said the car was safe. I usually don’t pay parking fees when I have my village head badge displayed. When I met him the next day, he said he forgot it was my car since I took some time, which is why it was clamped,” he explained.

He told TellZim News that he was a devout Christian and praising the use of black magic was like praising the works of the devil and warned people against spreading false information.

While acknowledging there might be underlying issues related to the incident, the village head said he preferred not to speculate and would comment further after proper investigation.

ZPCS Officer named overall winner at Mayor’s Cheer Fund Golf tournament

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ZPCS Officer named overall winner at Mayor’s Cheer Fund Golf tournament

By Virginia Njovo

Zimbabwe Correctional Officer based in Masvingo, Anthony Zvidzai, emerged as the overall winner at the recently held Masvingo Mayor’s Cheer Fund Golf Tournament at the Masvingo Golf Club Arena. The event brought together over 60 business leaders in support of charitable causes during the festive season.

Zvidzai told TellZim News that he began playing golf in 2015, marking exactly ten years in the sport, and has since won four awards in different tournaments.

“I started playing golf in 2015 out of passion and the dream of becoming an international golfer. Over these ten years, I have managed to win trophies in four different tournaments. 

In 2023, I was the winner of the Simon Muzenda Tournament. In 2025, I received three awards at the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) fundraising tournament, where I came fourth overall. I also won the Makova Memorial Tournament and, most recently, the overall title at the 2025 Masvingo Mayor’s Charity Tournament,” said Zvidzai.

During the handover of gifts at the Cheer Fund Tournament, Zvidzai dedicated his victory to his late father.

“I want to thank everyone who made it possible for me to play this game. I dedicate this win to my father, who passed away recently. I was not in the best state to play, but I felt I had to do it for him,” said Zvidzai.

City of Masvingo Mayor Alec Tabe, in a speech read on his behalf by ward 9 councillor Bernard Muchokwa, expressed gratitude to the business community for their support.

“I want to thank the business community and the people of Masvingo, as well as those abroad, who continue to support the vision of bringing smiles to people’s faces during the festive season. I also extend my appreciation to our sponsors, including Junior Investments, Five Bulls, and Absolute Security, for their contributions in making this event a success,” said Tabe.

Mwenezi teen with disability appeals for mobility aid to stay in school

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Mwenezi teen with disability appeals for mobility aid to stay in school

By TellZim Reporter

A 15-year-old boy from Vakai Village in Mwenezi West is appealing for public assistance to continue his education, as a physical disability makes the journey to school a painful and difficult daily challenge.

Apindiraishe Sibheyi, a learner at Makugwe Primary School, walks nearly two kilometers each day to attend classes, a journey that often leaves him exhausted and struggling with punctuality.

His father, Tinevimbo Sibheyi, explained that without a reliable mobility aid, his son finds it hard to keep up with both school activities and daily routines.

“The most interesting story about Apindiraishe is his passion and dedication to school work despite the hardships and barriers surrounding his potential.

“We stay a distance away from the school, which at times affects his studies due to punctuality problems arising from the tiresome walk. In order to go around school activities, Apindiraishe needs a bicycle or any kind of mobility aid to assist him walking,” said Tinevimbo.

He added that well-wishers could also help by enrolling Apindiraishe in a special needs school, noting that his son exudes remarkable confidence despite his disability and young age.

“Apindiraishe has a lot of confidence and is one person who can meander through a stigmatized society despite his young age and disability,” he said. “He is bright in school and even outshines others in chess. His creativity and intelligence are clear.”

As an unemployed father of six, including Apindiraishe who has special needs, Tinevimbo struggles to provide for his family.

Community advocates in Mwenezi say Apindiraishe’s situation reflects the broader challenges faced by children with disabilities in rural areas, who often lack access to mobility aids, school support services, and specialized institutions.

“Apindiraishe is not an isolated case of great potential in Mwenezi. We used to have Paul Matavire who became a musical legend despite his disability. Helping Apindiraishe is not only an act of kindness but an investment in a promising future. We would appreciate any kind of assistance from well-wishers to assist him because of the potential that he has,” said one advocate.

Well-wishers who wish to assist can contact his father, Tinevimbo Sibheyi, at 0716 082 688 or reach out on 077 459 8447.

Sharing room with minor girl lands man in court for rape 

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Sharing room with minor girl lands man in court for rape 

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

MASVINGO – A 24-year-old man finds himself facing serious rape charges after sharing sleeping quarters with his 10-year-old step-niece, highlighting the dangers of minors sharing rooms with adult relatives.

The accused (name withheld) appeared before Masvingo regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura on November 26, 2025, accused of raping the young girl while they slept in the same room that also served as a kitchen at their home.

He was remanded to December 2 for continuation of trial.

The court heard that the alleged incidents occurred sometime in April this year, the accused would cover the complainant with a blanket before sexually assaulting her.

The situation came to light on April 26 when the child confided in her niece about the repeated abuse, though police were only notified on June 3, leading to the accused’s arrest.

In his defense, the accused pleaded not guilty, claiming family vendetta saying his brother’s wife did not like him and coached the complainant to lie.

The case took an unusual turn when the victim’s stepfather, (name supplied) who is the accused’s older brother testified as a defense witness, supporting his brother’s innocence.

He told the court that his wife despised the accused because he loved him more than his wife.

However, medical reports presented in court confirmed the child had been sexually assaulted, supporting the state’s case.

The incident underscores the risks associated with children sharing sleeping spaces with adults, particularly in overcrowded living conditions where rooms serve multiple purposes.

Under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23, sexual crimes against minors are treated with utmost seriousness, recognizing that a child of that age cannot legally give consent.

Liberty Hove Prosecuted.

Night trip back to mine turns fatal for Sunset 31 miner

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Night trip back to mine turns fatal for Sunset 31 miner

By Ndinatsei Mavodza                       

GUTU– A late night return to the worksite ended in tragedy for a 44-year-old miner from the Chatsworth area who plunged to his death at Sunset 31 Mine.

Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident which occurred on November 23, 2025, around 1:30AM.

Circumstances are that Mapingure and his colleague, Munyaradzi Mazungu (38), had knocked off work to go to sleep at their tents about 35 metres from the mine.

Upon arrival, Mapingure realised he had forgotten some items and rushed back to the worksite.

Moments later, Mazungu heard a loud noise coming from the direction of the site and went to investigate. He called out to Mapingure but got no response.

He alerted fellow workers who rushed to the scene and found Mapingure lying lifeless in the mine shaft.

Police attended the scene and retrieved the body which had sustained a fractured skull and injuries to his right arm.

The tragedy comes at a time when the province has recorded an increase in mining related fatalities, raising concerns over the safety standards at both formal and informal mining operations.

Just three weeks ago, Blessed Ziwonda, a miner at Pitie’s Luck in Masvingo died after a huge rock fell on him as he was working in the mine shaft.

Just before that, another miner in Mashava, Talent Zamuchiya died after a load of slime collapsed on him.

Inspector Dhewa has urged miners to take safety precautions seriously, to avoid such tragic accidents.

“We urge those in the mining sector to prioritise safety. Safety should come first at all times because mining remains one of the most hazardous occupations,” he said.

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