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People with disabilities call for safe, accessible products

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People with disabilities call for safe, accessible products

By Own Correspondent
MASVINGO – People with disabilities have once again called for better access to safe
products and public services, highlighting gaps in infrastructure, mobility devices and public
transport in Zimbabwe.
Disability Accountability and Consulting Trust (DACT) president, Purazeni Jakata, said many public facilities were still not accessible to persons with
disabilities.
“Our infrastructure as a nation needs to be accessible and inclusive because we want to use
these services as well.
“We also have limited access to mobility devices. The Disability policy was introduced in
2021 and the Disability Act last December, but many institutions have not implemented these
measures.” Said Jakata
Jakata also raised concerns about accessing toilets, transport services and other essential
facilities for people who use wheelchairs.
He called on government and businesses to adopt inclusive designs and promote the local
production of wheelchairs.
The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) said it was stepping up efforts to ensure people
with disabilities were included in consumer protection programmes.
CPC chairperson Respina Zinyanduko said the commission was creating programmes tailored
to the needs of persons with disabilities and establishing easier ways to report unsafe
products.
“We are creating inclusive programmes tailored to their unique needs and establishing
accessible complaint mechanisms for reporting unsafe products,” she said.
“We are urging businesses to design products that promote an inclusive marketplace,
ensuring that every consumer feels safe and confident in their choices.”
Zinyanduko said CPC was also raising awareness among communities and working with
companies to promote ethical business practices.
She emphasized that consumer protection was not only a legal responsibility but also a moral
duty.
Minister of Industry and Commerce Mangaliso Ndlovu said government was committed to
ensuring that all consumers, including people with disabilities, have access to safe and
trustworthy products.

“Consumers today expect more than just affordable goods. They demand safety, quality,
authenticity and fair treatment.

“The government is strengthening national quality standards and inspections to make sure
products are safe for everyone.” Said Minister
The commemorations, held under the theme “Safe products, confident consumers,” brought
together traditional leaders, government officials, youths, persons with disabilities and
members of the private sector.
Speakers emphasized that inclusion is not only about access to products, but also about
ensuring that all services and infrastructure allow people with disabilities to participate fully
in society.
“Consumer protection is about confidence. When people trust that products are safe, they can
participate fully in the economy,” Zinyanduko said.
World Consumer Rights Day is usually marked globally on March 15, but

RIDA begins rehabilitation of Chivi’s Makonese Denge Dam

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RIDA begins rehabilitation of Chivi’s Makonese Denge Dam

By Andrew Zhou
CHIVI – Hope has been restored for the Denge community following the official launch of
rehabilitation works at Makonese Denge Dam in Chivi North ward 9.
The project, spearheaded by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), seeks to
repair the critical water source which was destroyed by heavy rains a year ago.
​During the official mark-out ceremony held at the dam site, Chivi North Member of Parliament,
Hon. Godfrey Mukungunugwa, highlighted the hardships endured by locals since the dam’s
infrastructure failed.
He noted that the destruction of the dam didn’t just break a wall but broke a way of life. The
primary impacts included collapsed irrigation schemes that supported local livelihoods and a
domestic water crisis that forced families to rely solely on a few overstretched boreholes.
​”The people of the Denge area have suffered significantly over the past year.Water is life, and
without this dam, our irrigation systems were paralyzed. Depending on boreholes for everything
is simply not sustainable for a community of this size.” Said Mukungunugwa.
Speaking on behalf of the government, a RIDA representative confirmed that the contractor was
on-site to begin the structural repairs. The agency emphasized that the speed of the project
depends heavily on the local environment and community support.
“The speed at which we complete this project is heavily dependent on the local environment and
the support we receive from the community,” the representative stated.
The representative urged the people of Makonese Denge to cooperate fully with the contractor to
ensure the security of equipment and a smooth workflow, which will allow the dam to be
completed as early as possible.
“I encourage the people of Denge to cooperate fully with the contractor to ensure the security of
equipment and a smooth workflow, which will allow the dam to be completed as early as
possible.” Said the rep.
​The rehabilitation project is expected to bring back the productive gardens that once defined the
area, providing both food security and income for Chivi North villagers.
Speaking to TellZim News, Chivi District AGRITEX officer Brighton Hadzirabwi said the
destruction of the local dam had triggered a severe livelihoods crisis in Denge area, leaving
hundreds of families without a reliable source of income or food security.
The collapse of the dam effectively paralyzed the local irrigation scheme, which had served as
the lifeblood of the community for years. Many farmers who previously specialized in

horticulture had been forced to abandon their plots, leading to a significant spike in poverty
levels within the district as the once-productive greenbelts turn into dust.
​”A total of five hundred households were affected since the irrigation scheme stopped
functioning when the dam was destroyed,”said Hadzirabwi.
One of the local villagers, Dambudzo Tongofa, expressed his gratitude, noting that the
restoration would resolve the perennial water challenges that have crippled the community.
​“I applaud the government’s move to rehabilitate the dam, which was destroyed by rains last
year. It will once again ease our water burden and improve income generation through farming,
specifically in both livestock and crop production,” said Tongofa.
Sharing the same optimism, another villager from Ward 9, said the project would serve as a
lifeline for those struggling to maintain their herds and gardens.
​“This project is a massive relief for us in Ward 9. Without this dam, we had no way to sustain our
livestock or grow enough food to sell. Its rehabilitation means we can finally return to productive
farming and support our families again,” the villager said.
With the dam contractors Travesal Trading teams now on-site and the community standing ready
to assist, the path to recovery for Chivi North is finally clear. As the dust settles on a year of
hardship, the successful restoration of the Makonese Denge Dam promises to transform these
once-parched plots back into the thriving greenbelts that sustain the heart of the district.

Tugwi Mukosi 15MW hydropower plant establishment takes shape

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Tugwi Mukosi 15MW hydropower plant establishment takes shape

By Karen Sibanda

The establishment of a 15 megawatt hydroelectric power plant at Tugwi Mukosi Dam is set to begin, marking a major step toward unlocking investment opportunities at the country’s largest inland dam in Zimbabwe nearly nine years after the dam’s completion.

The power project, expected to cost about US$30 million, will be implemented by Tugwi Mukosi Hydro Power Station, a company incorporated in 2022 and licensed by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority to develop the facility.

Speaking during a Tugwi Mukosi inception meeting recently held at Urban Lifestyles Hotel, Ministry of Energy official Sostain Zivuku said the engineering contractor Sinohydro Corporation went on site in 2025 and has already begun constructing accommodation for staff.

Zivuku said the project had already secured funding, with US$18 million mobilised from the Public Service Pension Fund.

“In 2022, a company called Tugwi Mukosi Hydro Power Station was incorporated and licensed by ZERA to start a 15MW power station. The power plant will be constructed at the cost of about US$30 million and US$18 million has been mobilized from the public service pension fund,” said Zivuku.

Zivuku said although preparatory works have started, civil works were temporarily halted earlier this year after the Zimbabwe National Water Authority requested further geological assessments to ensure that blasting required for the construction of the plant would not compromise the structural integrity of the dam wall and other infrastructure.

“They are currently at the dam site and the main works that they are doing is drilling to get samples to ensure the ground is good enough to hold a 15MW power plant and also to check the rock formation because a decision has to be made on whether the power plant will be built on the ground or underground,” he said.

He added that procurement of key equipment such as turbines and transformers had also experienced slight delays due to processes requiring engagement with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.

Once construction begins fully, the project is expected to take about 18 months to complete.

Electricity generated from the plant will be transmitted through a 38 kilometre transmission line linking Tugwi Mukosi Dam to Renco Mine, where a substation will connect the power to the national grid.

The hydropower project forms part of broader efforts by government to maximise the economic benefits of the dam, which holds about 1.8 billion cubic metres of water and has remained largely underutilised since its completion nearly nine years ago.

The push to accelerate development around the dam was highlighted during the inception meeting, where government officials, planners and traditional leaders discussed plans to evaluate investments linked to the reservoir.

Permanent Secretary for National Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning in the Office of the President and Cabinet Fananai Madambi said the evaluation was a Cabinet directive aimed at ensuring the dam generates meaningful returns.

“Tugwi Mukosi is one of the major investment structures by the government. Any investment is supposed to give us the desired return on investment. The purpose of this evaluation is to determine the benefits that should be realised and where we currently stand,” said Madambi.

Meanwhile, Chief Chivi born Adeline Mauswa welcomed the development, saying communities in the drought-prone district were already benefiting from some irrigation schemes linked to the dam and urged the government to prioritise local employment.

“The dam is beneficial to us in Chivi because this is a dry region, and we already have some irrigation schemes coming from it. But we urge the government to increase the number of irrigation schemes so that more communities can benefit. We are also looking forward to the establishment of the power plant and hope that residents from Chivi will be considered for employment,” said Mauswa.

Officials from the Department of Spatial Planning also confirmed that a master plan to guide investment around the dam is already in place and will soon be submitted for further approval before being opened for public review.

Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

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Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

By Karen Sibanda

A night out at a popular Masvingo nightspot ended in shock for a 32-year-old Rujeko man after his vehicle was stolen only to be found hours later abandoned at Runyararo West Cemetery.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred in the early hours of February 22, 2026 and urged members of the public to ensure that they park their vehicles in well-lit areas during the night.

“We have received a report of theft of a motor vehicle after the complainant realized that his Honda Fit had been stolen from outside a popular night spot, Masvingo. Investigations were made, leading to the recovery of the vehicle at Runyararo West Cemetery.

“We urge members of the public to avoid leaving vehicles unattended for extended periods, especially during the night. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are properly secured and, where possible, parked in well-lit and guarded areas. ,” said Assistant Inspector Patinyu.

Circumstances are that the complainant, Tapiwanashe Mapetese of Rujeko A, had parked his white Honda Fit (old shape) outside the night spot at around 10pm on February 21 before going inside for drinks.

Mapetese briefly returned to the vehicle at around 1:30am to collect a jacket. After locking the car, he went back into the bar. However, at approximately 3:00am, when he intended to drive home, the vehicle was nowhere to be found.

The vehicle, valued at approximately US$5,000, was recovered abandoned. No arrests had been made by time of writing and investigations into the theft were ongoing.

Zaka Zanu PF councillor acquitted in ‘Mnangagwa must go’ WhatsApp case

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Zaka Zanu PF councillor acquitted in ‘Mnangagwa must go’ WhatsApp case

By Brighton Chiseva
A Zanu PF councillor who was dragged to court for Incitement to commit public violence as
defined in section 187(1) Criminal law (Codification and Reform) Act as read with section
36(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codificationand Reform) Act after fowarding a WhatsApp
message calling for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down has been acquitted
Zaka Ward 24 councillor Zivanai Zvada, 44, walked free from the Zaka Magistrates Court on
February 4 after Magistrate Grace Tupiri upheld an application for discharge at the close of the
prosecution case, ruling that evidence presented by three state witnesses was “manifestly
unreliable” to secure a conviction.
The acquittal brings to a close the legal saga that began on April 1 2025 when Zvada was
arrested for forwarding a message that read: “M31 Movement Munhu wese mu road Emmerson
Mnangagwa has to go” in a WhatsApp group called “Ward 24 Development Agenda” where he
is also an admin.
Zvada is not only a Zanu PF councillor but also a constituency coordinator for Zaka South MP
Clemence Chiduwa, placing him firmly within the party’s structure even as he faced charges of
undermining the President.
The message, originally posted on X by activist Never Masweraseyi, was forwarded by Zvada on
March 31 2025 the same day opposition figures had called for demonstrations. Sources, the post
remained in the group for several hours until Zvada deleted it that evening after being warned by
fellow members.
The group was originally created by Zaka Rural District Council CEO David Majaura as a
development forum, but Zvada took over administration after his election as councilor.
Majaura, who reportedly reported Zvada to the police, has had a tense relationship with the
councillor, who was part of efforts to remove the CEO from his position.
During the trial, which commenced on January 29 2026, prosecutors alleged that Zvada’s actions
were meant to “persuade or induce the general public to disturb the peace” and incite violence
against the President. His Samsung phone was seized and sent for forensic analysis at the police
Cyber Laboratory.
Zvada spent over two weeks in detention after being denied bail at the magistrate’s court, which
deemed him a threat to public order. He was only freed on April 17 after the Masvingo High
Court granted him bail.
His lawyer, Frank Chirairo of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, successfully argued
that the state had failed to prove Zvada sent the message.

Magistrate Tupiri agreed, noting that witnesses including Zanu PF Ward 24 Youth Chairperson
Cuthbert Chiguvi, investigating Officer Archbald Muyambi, and digital forensic analyst Nyasha
Mandebvu had made “bold assertions” without providing evidence a reasonable

Infidelity row leaves couple dead in Ngundu

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Infidelity row leaves couple dead in Ngundu

By Ndinatsei Mavodza
CHIVI – A domestic dispute over alleged infidelity ended in a double tragedy after a 33-
year-old woman from Nyahombe New Stands in Ngundu died from complications of a bite
wound before her husband was later found hanging near their home on the same day.
Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu
confirmed the death of Monica Mbathane and her husband Donald Mataga (33) and
condemned domestic violence, saying misunderstandings in relationships should not escalate
into physical confrontations.
“I confirm the death of Mbathane and Mataga who both died on February 20 at different
intervals after a dispute on February 13, 2026 which ended up in violence.
“We condemn domestic violence in the strongest terms. Disputes between couples should
always be solved peacefully and amicably,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.
Assistant Inspector Patinyu also urged members of the public to seek help when facing
problems rather than taking their own life.
“Suicide is never an option. Challenges are part of life and can be addressed through dialogue
and support systems. We encourage people to speak out and seek help instead of suffering in
silence,” he said.
Circumstances are that the couple allegedly had a misunderstanding at their home on
February 13 at around 10PM over suspected infidelity.
The dispute turned physical, with Mbathane reportedly grabbing Mataga’s private parts. In an
attempt to free himself, Mataga bit Mbathane’s right arm causing a deep wound.
Mbathane did not seek medical attention immediately after the incident.
On February 19, she reportedly began experiencing severe complications as her arm started to
rot and she became seriously ill.
Mbathane was taken to Chivi District Hospital where she was admitted in a critical condition.
On February 20 at around 9AM, she was transferred to Masvingo Provincial Hospital and
died on the way along Tokwe-Mandamabwe road.
Her body was taken back to Chivi District Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Later that same day at around 4PM, Mataga’s body was discovered hanging from a tree
branch on a mountain approximately 200 metres from their home.

​Procurement delays Tshovani Stadium refurbishment

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​Procurement delays Tshovani Stadium refurbishment

​By Beatific Gumbwanda
​CHIREDZI – Plans to refurbish Tshovani Stadium remain in motion despite significant
delays in the tendering process, with budgeted funds for the project reportedly still
intact.
​Chiredzi Town Council (CTC) had initially expected work to commence in late December

  1. However, administrative hurdles have stalled progress.
    ​Addressing residents during a recent ward development feedback meeting organized by
    TellZim News, CTC Vice Chairperson and Ward 1 Councilor Liberty Macharaga
    confirmed that the local authority is still committed to the project.
    ​“Refurbishment of Tshovani Stadium is still on the cards. As a local authority, we have
    set aside the beer levy from 2025 and 2026 toward the stadium. I can assure you that
    work will begin as soon as the tendering process is finalized ” said Macharaga.
    ​Macharaga explained that the initial timeline was derailed by procedural errors and a
    lack of competitive bids.
    ​“Tendering began in late November, and we hoped work would start by late December.
    However, we were informed of errors in the initial process, which forced us to re-tender.
    This required a mandatory 21-day waiting period,” he added.
    ​He further noted that the second attempt yielded only one bidder.
    ​“While we were advised that we could proceed with a sole tenderer, the history of
    Chiredzi demands high levels of transparency. We felt it was best to re-tender again to
    ensure a fair process. Interestingly, the first round had over ten interested parties who
    did not resubmit in the second round. We have urged them to resubmit their documents,
    and we hope for a successful outcome this time,” he added.
    ​Tshovani Stadium currently serves as the sole major sporting facility in Chiredzi. Beyond
    the main stadium, Macharaga urged local youths to identify smaller spaces for
    recreational development to help combat drug and substance abuse.
    ​“I encourage the youth to come up with ideas. For instance, one group identified a
    space outside Tshovani Stadium where a multipurpose court for basketball, netball,
    tennis, and volleyball could be built. I have already pledged 10 bags of cement toward
    that initiative and promised to engage the business community for further funding,”
    Macharaga said

Masvingo filmmaker makes history with AI-generated romantic film

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Masvingo filmmaker makes history with AI-generated romantic film

By Tatiana Mhararira

A Masvingo filmmaker is rewriting the rules of cinema after releasing what is believed to be one of Zimbabwe’s first artificial intelligence-driven films, blending technology with timeless storytelling. 

The film, My Valentine Surprise, directed by Arthur Muoni and released on February 14, 2026, is not just a romantic drama it is a bold experiment in how AI can shape the future of local filmmaking.

The romantic film not only entertains but also showcases the potential of technology in enhancing storytelling.

Speaking to TellZim News Muoni said the film was of great importance as it had much significance to the audience who watch it.

“The message about the film is that love is proven in difficult seasons, not easy ones. Miscarriages are not a woman’s failure they are a painful medical and emotional experience that requires support, patience, and unity. A true partner stands beside you in grief, not only in celebration.

“Another lesson from the film is about self-worth. No one deserves to be abandoned because of circumstances beyond their control. If someone walks away during your hardest moment, it reveals their character not your value,” said Muoni.

He also said the film had some lessons to be drawn from it.

“My valentine surprise also teaches the audience that marriage is about commitment, especially during loss. Compassion matters more than pride. Sometimes heartbreak exposes who was never truly ready to love unconditionally. Most important of all the right person will stay, fight, and heal with you not replace you when life gets hard,” he said.

Muoni said his inspiration to explore AI in film making wa s derived from his passion of storytelling especially in the digital age where artificial intelligence is being used in different sectors.

“I have always been passionate about storytelling, but I’m equally fascinated by innovation. The rapid growth of artificial intelligence opened up new creative possibilities that I couldn’t ignore. I saw AI not as a replacement for human creativity, but as a powerful tool to enhance it.

“When l received the script of Valentine Surprise, I wanted to create a romantic comedy that felt fresh, modern, and relatable especially to a younger, digitally connected audience. AI became part of the creative process from the early stages of concept development, helping refine ideas and visualize scenes before production even began,” said Muoni.

He also stated that AI enriched some parts of the film production and how it took part in character development which influenced the final outcome.

“AI enhanced several aspects of the production. During storytelling, it helped with brainstorming plot variations, tightening dialogue, and exploring different character arcs. In production, AI tools supported tasks like script polishing, visual concept generation, editing assistance, and even marketing strategy. For viewers, the result was a more polished and immersive experience. AI helped us streamline workflows, which meant we could focus more on emotional depth, pacing, and overall quality.

“AI contributed ideas and alternative perspectives during the writing process, but the emotional core of the story remained deeply human. Romantic comedies rely on authenticity, chemistry, and cultural nuance especially within a Zimbabwean context.AI helped explore ‘what if’ scenarios and refine dialogue, but the characters’ personalities, motivations, and emotional journeys were shaped by lived experiences and cultural understanding,” he said.

Muoni also said he faced a number of challenges and how he overcame the challenges he faced.

“One of the biggest challenges was learning how to balance AI assistance with human creativity. At first, it was tempting to rely heavily on the technology, but I quickly realized that AI works best as a collaborator, not a decision-maker.

“There were also technical limitations and a learning curve. I overcame these by experimenting, refining prompts, and continuously aligning the output with my creative vision. Ultimately, the key was staying in control of the story while using AI as a supportive tool,” said Muoni.

Looking ahead, Muoni envisions a flourishing film industry in Masvingo and Zimbabwe, shaped significantly by AI.

“I believe AI has the potential to democratize filmmaking in Zimbabwe. It can lower production costs, improve access to high-quality tools, and empower young filmmakers who may not have large budgets.

“If used responsibly, AI can help Zimbabwean storytellers compete globally while still telling authentic local stories. It’s not about replacing talent it’s about amplifying it,” he added.

The film was written by Nyaradzo Mutsauri who also wrote another film called Mugabe and   is currently in Canada. My Valentine surprise is available on YouTube Nyari tales.

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Topora night crash claims one

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Topora night crash claims one

 
 By Tadiwa Shunje

MASVINGO – A 55-year-old man from Mutirikwi died after he was run over while allegedly sleeping on a narrow road near Topora Business Centre on February 20, 2026.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed that the deceased, Lovemore Vhoko of Zinwa Dam Hall, Lake Mutirikwi, had reportedly been drinking beer at Topora Business Centre earlier that evening.

“We confirm the death of Vhoko from Zinwa Dam Hall,Lake Mutirikwi who was crashed by a motor vehicle while sleeping on the road. We urge members of the public to drink responsibly and avoid sitting or sleeping on roads, particularly at night. Motorists have also should exercise extreme caution and remain alert when driving, especially on narrow and poorly lit roads,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Vhoko left for home at around 10:30 PM. His residence is approximately seven kilometres from the business centre and allegedly fell asleep on the roadway as he walked home. 

At around 8:00 pm, Ernest Murumbi (62) of Chief Murinye, Masvingo, was driving along the same narrow stretch of road when he unknowingly ran over him.

Murumbi reportedly did not realise that he had struck a person and continued with his journey.

The following morning, at approximately 5:00 am  on February 21, Vhoko’s body was discovered lying on the road by a fellow worker from Zinwa Mutirikwi Dam Hall, who immediately alerted authorities.

Police attended the scene and transported the body to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Vhoko sustained an open cut on the left side of the head and cheek. 

After reports of the incident began circulating on social media, Murumbi surrendered himself to the police and has since been charged with culpable homicide.

Masvingo Provincial performance analysis of development projects by district

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Masvingo Provincial performance analysis of development projects by district

By Ndinatsei Mavodze

MASVINGO – Masvingo Province’s seven District Development Coordinators recently gathered at a stakeholder meeting at Masvingo Poly on March 3 to present performance reports on development projects in their respective areas, giving a rare glimpse into progress across the province’s districts.

The presentations covered infrastructure development, water and sanitation, health facilities, education, irrigation schemes, and land administration among other indicators. TellZim News analysed the reports to rank districts based on project implementation, tangible outcomes, and evidence of development momentum.

1. Gutu District – Leading with Completed Projects 

From the presentations which may be different from what is obtaining on the ground, Gutu District represented by the Disctrict Development Coodinator (DDC) Chiedza Tafirei, emerged as the best performing district, demonstrating a strong track record of completing projects rather than merely initiating them.

The district celebrated the completion and commissioning of the Sotisosi solar project, a significant milestone in rural electrification. At Lowland Irrigation Scheme, ploughing has been completed with 10 plots already under cultivation, showing tangible progress in food security initiatives.

In health delivery, Gutu successfully upgraded a rural facility to a clinic, with the application for upgrading submitted and medication now being provided. The community is already benefiting from improved health services, with the facility now admitting patients.

Gutu also showed forward thinking by providing a building for a proposed rehabilitation center, although the DDC said funds were still required to complete the project. On road infrastructure, routine maintenance covering 40 kilometres has been completed on key routes including Gutu-Buhera, Zimuto-Chatsworths, and Gutu-Kurai roads, despite funding challenges stalling further progress.

Gutu’s strength lies in completing what it starts, with the Sotisosi solar project and clinic upgrade standing as tangible evidence of effective project management.

2. Chiredzi District 

From Chiredzi’s presentation done by DDC Lovemore Chisema, the district demonstrated a wide range of development initiatives, showing engagement across multiple sectors from education to irrigation and disaster response.

The district responded swiftly to an emergency when Chikombedzi Hospital’s outpatients ward roof was blown away by a storm. With assistance from Gonarezhou, the roof has been fixed, although ceiling and paint work remains.

Chiredzi district said it was addressing water needs across several wards. Ward 5’s request for safe drinking water through boreholes had been submitted, but drilling had not commenced due to the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) rig that was reportedly broken down, requiring alternative partnerships.

In infrastructure, the Chilonga Bridge Causeway rehabilitation in Ward 7, it was reported that a contractor was identified, with work awaiting water levels to subside. Ward 27 had made significant progress on business sites, with a layout plan adopted, stands pegged, and construction already in progress by beneficiaries.

However, the district faces challenges in education and health facility establishment. Requests for a secondary school in Ward 12, a secondary school in Ward 1, and a clinic in Ward 1 remain at motion stage, awaiting council resolutions to proceed. The Masapase Irrigation Scheme also was reported to be at planning stage.

Chiredzi’s comprehensive approach across multiple sectors places it second, though the gap between planning and implementation needs addressing.

Masvingo District

Masvingo District led by DDC Joyce Chikugu, showed impressive progress in infrastructure development, particularly under the presidential borehole scheme where 56 boreholes had been drilled. Five have been equipped and were expected to be solarized, while China Aid donated 15 bush pumps. Five more boreholes are planned, with Chatikobo and Murinye Clinic now operating with boreholes.

The district made significant strides in road maintenance, with 571 kilometres graded in total where 258 kilometres were done by Masvingo RDC and 313 kilometres by RIDA. Low-lying bridges have received attention, with Matizi Bridge completed in 2025 and Nyaukaka bridge at 54 percent completion. Mutirikwi bridge designs were reported to have been completed by the Ministry of Transport.

On environmental issues, the district addressed land degradation from mining activities through backfilling and rehabilitation. In the Chomugwaku area, where gravel mining occurred, 300 trees were planted as part of land preservation efforts.

Interventions on illegal settlers have been carried out in Wards 9, 5, and 7. The Zvinyaningwe Irrigation Scheme, covering 46 hectares, was completed.

4. Bikita District 

In his report, Bikita DDC Bernad Hadzirabwi, indicated that the district is making strategic investments in water infrastructure, with upgrading of the Rozva water plant through resending of filters set to increase volumes from 60 cubic metres to 100 cubic metres per hour. Although major activities are on hold due to resource unavailability, water coverage in residential areas was improved from 60 percent to 85 percent. Resuscitation of two boreholes as backup is in progress.

The district is addressing a major health gap, as Bikita is the only district in the province without a government district hospital. Council was paying for a topographical survey which should be completed in the first quarter of 2026.

Electrification and solarisation of boosters is in progress in Pamushana Ward 11 and Chirombe Ward 20, with plans to establish another booster in Mukore Ward 8. Proposals for outstanding areas are ongoing.

Road rehabilitation on the Makuvaza-Chiredzi road was budgeted for this year, with tendering in progress. The Negwari Irrigation scheme remains at proposed site stage with no progress, awaiting funds. 

In a significant policy intervention, Bikita Minerals was reported to be following a Ministry of Mines policy of 80 percent local employment and 20 percent outsiders, with employment ongoing. Title deeds for small-scale farmers in Wards 29 and 11 are being addressed by council and Lands.

Human-wildlife conflict in the Save Valley Conservancy was being attended to promptly, with ongoing community awareness campaigns.

Bikita’s strategic focus on water and local employment policies shows thoughtful development planning.

5. Mwenezi District 

According to the DDC Isaac Mutambara’s presentation, Mwenezi is focused on establishing foundational infrastructure in resettlement areas. Clinics have been pegged at Tshobelele, Mujuneri, and Mayezi, now awaiting construction to begin. This addresses a critical gap, as resettlement areas currently have no clinics.

The district has identified 18 war veterans for decent burial, awaiting funding from central government. All seven chiefs in the district have been allocated stands at the growth point, strengthening traditional leadership presence.

Petronella Clinic has reached 98 percent completion, a significant milestone for health service delivery in the area.

Mwenezi’s progress is steady but foundational, with many projects still awaiting construction or funding.

6. Chivi District 

In his presentation, Chivi DDC Innocent Matingwina said Chivi residents are already benefiting from Muzhwi and Tugwi Mukosi dams, with Bwanya Irrigation Scheme serving 300 beneficiaries, Gororo Irrigation Scheme with 72 beneficiaries, and Nyahombe Irrigation Scheme with 78 beneficiaries. Fishing cooperatives are set to operate soon, and electric power generation from the dam is planned.

However, the district struggles with poor road networks. Road construction is ongoing with only 2 kilometres of regravelling completed, and maintenance will only resume after the rain season.

On land issues for war veterans and widows, only 28 percent of the layout plan has been written to the provincial head for war veterans, indicating slow progress.

Chivi shows potential through dam-based development but implementation on the ground remains limited.

7. Zaka District

Zaka ranks lowest due to internal governance issues that threaten development momentum. Instead of talking about talking about developmental progress, the DDC Nyaradzo Tongofa centred his presentation on how she addressed leadership divisions and fights in the district. Discord within the local authority has necessitated tripartite meetings between the CEO, council chair, and District Development Coordinator every two weeks to solve problems.

Positively, capacity building programmes for councillors have been conducted, with all councillors trained to understand their positions and the executive trained on their roles. A team-building exercise is planned for the second quarter.

On environmental issues, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) is conducting trainings to help communities set up standard fire guards to address veld fire problems.

While Zaka is taking steps to address internal conflicts and build capacity, governance challenges suggest development implementation may be hindered until these issues are fully resolved.

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