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“I was drunk” woman pleads guilty to incest with uncle

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“I was drunk” woman pleads guilty to incest with uncle

By Ndinatsei Mavodza                       

Masvingo – A 24-year-old woman from Victoria Ranch pleaded guilty in a Masvingo court to an incestuous relationship with her maternal uncle and said she was drunk when she committed the offense.

The accused (name supplied) appeared before Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura on October 14, 2025, where she admitted to the crime, which occurred in April this year.

“I plead guilty to the offence. I slept with him twice that day after he came to my bedroom,” she told the court.

However, in her defense she said she could not recall some details since she was drunk.

 “I was very drunk as it was my first time drinking beer. I had drank Two Keys, which my uncle brought to me in a cup,” she pleaded.

The court heard that the incident came to light after the accused’s 11-year-old brother allegedly discovered a video of the sexual activity on her phone.

The accused’s mother reported the matter to the police on September 20

However, she denied knowledge of the video saying she had no phone during that time.

She pleaded for leniency, citing her poor health and said she was self-employed and mother to a five year old child who needed her care.The court is now awaiting assessment reports to determine the next course of action.

However, her co-accused uncle is still at large and is on the police wanted list.

Under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Section 75(2) prohibits sexual intercourse between closely related individuals. Incest is widely regarded as a serious taboo in the country, though cases often go unreported due to family relations and fear of social stigma.

Chilonga’s irrigation scheme paralyzed by water access       

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Chilonga’s irrigation scheme paralyzed by water access       

By Beatific Gumbwanda

The Chilonga Irrigation Scheme, situated along the perennial Runde River, remains non-functional primarily due to difficulties in accessing water, standing in stark contrast to the 19 other flourishing irrigation schemes in Chiredzi District.

While the other schemes are helping communities mitigate the effects of climate change, Chilonga has been inactive for years.

Its sole water source, the Runde River, has been affected by siltation, preventing the scheme from operating. This comes after the district experienced erratic rainfall in the past year, which made functional irrigation essential for food production.

Chiredzi Agricultural Extension Services Zone 2 Fungai Plaxedes Jeke confirmed the sad development saying Chilonga was the only scheme facing such challenges.


“We have 19 functional schemes, including Malikango, Tshovani, Rupangwana, Fungai, Dendere, St. Joseph, Gudo Pools, Nyangambe Main, Nyangambe Village 3, Magogonogwe, Manjinji, Manyeredzi, Syphon 1, Tatanga, Labamba, Moyochena, Gutsaruzhinji, Mangandife, and Watershed.

Only Chilonga is non-functional due to water issues. We are looking into ways to assist in rehabilitating the scheme,” said Jeke.

Jeke emphasized the critical role the operational schemes play in the district wing to its location which receives less rainfall.

“The schemes allow communities to grow crops throughout the year, ensuring a consistent food supply. These crops generally survive mid-season dry spells and periods of low rainfall, making it easier for communities to access food,” said Jeke.

Chiredzi District Development Coordinator (DCC) Lovemore Chisema concurred with Jeke, citing siltation as a major challenge.

 He outlined several issues, including the high cost of electricity for pumping water and the need for regular excavations to ensure water reaches the pump stations.


“The government is aware of the challenge, the water authority is also aware, and efforts are being made to address the problem. We call upon other private players willing to partner with the farmers to address the challenge and revitalize the scheme to come foward,” said Chisema.

Gutu Chief accused of diverting memorial funds

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Gutu Chief accused of diverting memorial funds

By Staff Reporter

A deep crisis of leadership and trust is unfolding in Chief Chimombe’s area of Gutu, where Acting Chief Chimombe born Muzvare Rutsate Muzondo faces serious allegations from his own family over missing funds intended for his late father’s tombstone.

At the same time, villagers are protesting what they describe as coercive financial demands for the memorial and police toilets.

The scandal deepened when a family member, speaking anonymously for fear of victimization, revealed that the family only learned of the fundraising efforts through the media. The source emphasized that the decision to solicit funds was solely the acting chief’s and not a collective family resolution.

“The entire family is deeply disappointed. We purchased the tombstone in Harare ourselves for US$550. Infact one of the chief’s granddaughter based in Australia is the one who funded for the purchase.

The acting chief did not contribute a single cent, nor did he attend the unveiling ceremony on October 10. If he collected money from villagers for this purpose, as we have heard, he must explain where it has gone. This is not just about money, it’s about disrespecting our patriarchy.”

The allegations were however in contrast to the acting chief’s reported fundraising efforts, which included instructing each village under his jurisdiction to contribute US$12 toward the memorial service and tombstone unveiling. Households were also levied an additional US$5 plus a six-pack of Chibuku Super beer.

Asked for comment by TellZim News Chief Chimombe denied requesting any contributions for the tombstone.

“I never asked for anything for the tombstone unveiling. I only know that we asked villagers to fund the toilets at the police camp, as requested, and this was not limited to my area alone but included other chiefs,” he said.

Regarding his absence from the tombstone unveiling where he was expected to receive his father’s chieftainship rod as per tradition, Chimombe claimed he had a chiefs’ meeting in Masvingo that the entire family knew about. He dismissed other allegations as lies meant to tarnish his image.

“I had a chiefs’ meeting in Masvingo that the whole family knew about, all that you hear from my clansmen are lies meant to tarnish my image,” he said.

However, family members noted that his absence was not surprising. The late chief died on July 1 and was buried on July 5. The acting chief, who was present the entire day, refused to be part of the burial process,” said one family member.

Rodger Marozhe, an aide to the chief, had earlier confirmed the requests for contributions but downplayed their compulsory nature. “Chief Chimombe is not forcing anyone to contribute. He only asked those who are able to participate in the Manyaradzo (memorial ceremony) for his late father. Each village is requested to pay US$12, with some contributions also meant for the construction of toilets at Bhasera Police Station,” he said Marozhe.

Sources further revealed that the acting chief backed down from his demands after TellZim News published a story on the issue, drawing scrutiny from authorities.

Mnangagwa, Chiwenga cold war heats up

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Mnangagwa, Chiwenga cold war heats up

… as Mutsvangwa launches scathing attacks on Chiwenga

Brighton Chiseva

The internal power struggle within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF party escalated dramatically on Thursday as national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa launched a blistering attack on Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, accusing him of attempting to create a ‘kangaroo court’ within the party and linking him to historical attempts to undermine President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership.

Mutsvangwa’s press conference came amid circulating competing dossiers from the Mnangagwa and Chiwenga camps that have exposed deep divisions threatening party unity.

The confrontation centers on two key documents: Chiwenga’s dossier accuses Mnangagwa’s allies of state capture and looting US$3.2 billion, while secretary for legal affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi’s rebuttal describes the allegations as “reckless, malicious and treasonous.

Mutsvangwa squarely placed responsibility for the political crisis on Chiwenga, stating the Vice President had acted alone in preparing the controversial dossier presented to the politburo on September 17.

“In the meeting, other members of the presidium were asked if they were aware of the dossier but they denied knowledge of it. This means other members were simply dragged in and it boomeranged on Chiwenga,” said Mutsvangwa.

“The Vice President wanted to try the person who appointed him. There are professional organizations that deal with corruption, so if it’s about corruption he was supposed to report it there, not turning the politburo into a kangaroo court,” he said.

The spokesperson dismissed the Chiwenga dossier as lacking substance, claiming it was motivated by personal ambition rather than genuine concern about corruption. He went on to invoke liberation war credentials in his attack.

“The document was debunked, there was nothing in it. It was an attempt to turn the politburo into an oligarchy. He just believes he has to rule Zimbabwe. We tell him, he was at the wrong address during the war. He only joined us when we were returning. Being a general means nothing, its just that some decided to remain in the army while we left after the liberations struggle, if I had remained I could have made a better general,” said Mutsvangwa said,.

In a significant escalation, Mutsvangwa suggested the conflict stemmed from a personal fallout between Chiwenga and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, whom the dossier had accused of corruption.

“Chiwenga and Tagwirei were very good friends until they had a fall out. He’s now using that fallout to accuse Tagwirei and others of corruption. They were close and I was once a victim of their friendship when I was the special advisor to the president after I talked about Sakunda,” he said.

The spokesperson further intensified his allegations by indirectly connecting Chiwenga to the 2018 White City bombing attempt on Mnangagwa’s life, describing it as an inside job done by someone who was close to the top.

Mutsvangwa elaborated on what he characterized as long-standing opposition to Mnangagwa’s leadership saying they did not want him to succeed Mugabe but they failed now they were trying to end his rule.

Addressing calls for stay-away protests, Mutsvangwa told journalists to ignore war veteran Blessed Geza and urged them to go to Mutare for the Zanu PF annual congress saying that’s where all the drama was going to be.

“There will be nothing in Harare. If you stay here you will lose the drama in Mutare,” SAID Mutsvangwa.

The public confrontation signals that the long-simmering cold war between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga has now erupted into open conflict, with both camps preparing for what promises to be a decisive party congress.

The internal power struggle within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF party is set to intensify at the annual conference, where the party is expected to push for ‘Resolution Number One’ to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond 2028.

This agenda, often referred to as the “2030 Agenda, is a central point of contention with Vice Chiwenga, who views it as a direct move to block him from taking over power in 2028

Nyashanu High rises from ashes, advances facilities and learner achievements

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Nyashanu High rises from ashes, advances facilities and learner achievements

By Ndinatsei Mavodza                                                                    

One cannot speak of Nyashanu High School without recalling the devastating fire that engulfed one of its girls’ hostels in June last year, a story that made headlines and left parents shocked and fearing for the safety of their children.

Today, the school has not only recovered but has redefined resilience, transforming tragedy into a catalyst for modernization.

The school head Jackson Dunatuna recounted the sad incident, emphasizing the crucial role of community support in the school’s rapid recovery.

“The hostel that burned housed 102 girls. It was devastating, and thankfully, no lives were lost, though learners lost several belongings. Through immense support from former students, stakeholders, and the Buhera District Rural Council, we were able to rapidly rebuild and revamp it into the modern facility you see now,” said Dunatuna

The reconstruction has been completed at an impressive pace, and in a twist of fate, the disaster forced the school to rebuild in a modern way, ultimately proving to be a blessing.

The new block now offers a safer, more comfortable, and contemporary living environment for learners, ensuring their welfare and enabling them to focus on learning without disruption.

Beyond this flagship project, the school is on an aggressive drive to refurbish other buildings. Both girls’ and boys’ hostels are being upgraded with new tiling, repainting, partitioning, and general renovations.

When TellZim News crew visited the school recently work was in progress with tillers and painters on the ground.

The wave of improvement extends to classrooms, which were undergoing massive renovations. They were being repainted, rebuilt, and having their worn cement floors replaced with new tiles, creating brighter and more comfortable spaces for learning.

The school’s Memorial Library was also being renovated to provide a modern and inviting area for students to read and study.

In a major step toward energy independence, Nyashanu High installed a 48KV solar system in 2024, covering the entire learning and boarding area. Headmaster Dunatuna emphasized the system’s reliability, saying they one could not tell if there was Zesa power or not.

“If you get here, you will not be able to tell if we have grid electricity or not. Our learners have lighting and can use mobile gadgets for Wi-Fi and smart board learning anytime, without interruption from ZESA power cuts,” said Dunatuna.

Beyond infrastructure, the school boasts a vibrant range of extracurricular activities, including quizzes and sports like basketball, soccer, volleyball, and handball.

A look in the school’s trophy cabinet confirms its status as a sporting force. The under-15 soccer team recently competed at the provincial level, reaching the quarterfinals, while two girls from the under-20 volleyball team have been selected for national competitions.

With these ongoing developments and student successes, Nyashanu High is confidently positioned to continue excelling academically and in extracurricular activities, a momentum that will be showcased when it hosts the inter-Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) school’s athletic competitions in 2026.

Nyashanu High on the move to bridge digital divide

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Nyashanu High on the move to bridge digital divide

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe’s Nyashanu High School continues to set the standard for academic excellence and innovation in Buhera District, with a strong embrace of technology that is reshaping learning and bridging a critical communication gap.

The school has fully integrated technology as a cornerstone of its modern learning approach. Currently, six interactive smart boards are in use with plans to equip every classroom.

These boards allow learners to save lessons and replay them for revision, enhancing learning outcomes and doing away with chalk dust.

Crucially, this digital leap is powered by a high-speed Starlink internet connection. This has been a game-changer in an area with limited mobile network coverage. The reliable WiFi does more than just facilitate smart board lessons; it has become a vital communication lifeline, allowing leaners and staff to connect with the wider world where traditional phone networks often fail.

The school is home to 875 learners, with around 100 being day learners from the local community.

The school head Jackson Dunatuna said they operate a deliberate enrolment policy, allowing learners from Nyashanu Primary to enroll even with modest Grade 7 results.

“We are an inclusive school that does not discriminate on any grounds, We have a deliberate enrolment policy. At Form 1, we enroll learners from our local primary school with lower entry points. We encourage them to come learn at their school,” said Dunatuna.

With 36 teaching staff, 23 non-teaching staff, and additional local part-time staff participating in programs such as the school’s agricultural projects, Nyashanu High’s campus sits on 109 hectares.

The head further highlighted the school’s remarkable academic progress, pointing out that the Ordinary Level pass rate increased from 85.6 percent in 2022 to 92.7 percent this year.

“We are very proud of what we are doing here. In 2022 our pass rate was 85.6% for Ordinary level and we are very happy that our pass rate has been rising to the current pass rate which is 92.7%,” he said.

In Advanced level, Nyashanu High has maintained a 100% pass rate for the past three years, reflecting the school’s dedication to academic excellence. Beyond academics, the school integrates Biblical values under the guidance of Station Superintendent Rev Simeon Madanire, while also encouraging sports and extracurricular participation.

“In line with the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe’s mantra, Nyashanu is a school on the move,” said Dunatuna.

Zanu PF councillor swindled US$56 600 in shady car deal

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Zanu PF councillor swindled US$56 600 in shady car deal

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

Masvingo – A 35-year-old car dealer, Romeo Karonga, has been granted bail of US$300 after appearing in court for allegedly defrauding Zanu PF Councillor Benson Hwata of US$56,600 in a car deal.

Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura granted bail under strict conditions, including residing in Masvingo, weekly police reporting, and non-interference with investigations and state witnesses.

Karonga will be back in court on November 18 for continuation of trial.

Karonga, who operates in Masvingo, appeared in court facing fraud charges involving the Ward 2 Masvingo City Council representative.

The court heard that the case stems from a transaction beginning in October 2023, when Councillor Hwata paid Karonga for two motor vehicles, a Nissan UD80 and a JCB excavator.

The pattern involved repeated requests for additional payments without any vehicles being delivered.

The state alleges that an initial US$47,000 was paid for purchase and transportation from South Africa, followed by US$2,600 requested for painting the Nissan UD80 and fuel costs in October, and another US$7,000 for ZIMRA duty fees in November.

After receiving the total US$56 600, Karonga failed to deliver any vehicle to Councillor Hwata.

The state had opposed bail, arguing the offence’s seriousness and Karonga’s position in the motor business made him likely to reoffend. The court also heard Karonga had contacted witnesses to testify in his favour.

However, the defense lawyers successfully argued that the reasons weren’t compelling enough to deny bail.

I.P.A Org donates protective sunscreen to Shurugwi albinism community

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I.P.A Org donates protective sunscreen to Shurugwi albinism community

By Tavonga Munyanyi

In a meaningful demonstration of support, the Gweru-based civil society organization Integration of People with Albinism (I.P.A) Organization recently donated sunscreen lotions to members of the albinism community in Shurugwi’s rural areas.

The handover ceremony took place on Monday October 06 at Chachacha Business Centre in Ward 10, Shurugwi South.

The event was attended by Shurugwi Town Council Mayor Fanuel Machiya, Assistant District Development Coordinator Willard Gwerevende, District Social Development Officer Shantel Chinhengo, and Ward 10 Councillor Tarisai Murashiki.

A total of 40 bottles of sunscreen lotion were distributed to 20 individuals with albinism from the district’s rural communities.

I.P.A Organization Director James Mudoti said the group was dedicated to supporting people with albinism while also working to eliminate discrimination and social stigmatization.

“As an organization, we are focused on improving the welfare of people with albinism by providing them with appropriate necessities. They need sunhats and sunscreen lotions because they have little or no melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair, and eyes. Without sunscreen, their skin is exposed to sunlight, causing sunburn that may lead to skin cancer,” said Mudoti.

He added that the organization was actively visiting schools to identify challenges faced by children with albinism, with a special focus on rural areas where families often cannot afford protective items such as sunscreen and spectacles.

“We aim to reach all districts in the Midlands Province, with an emphasis on rural communities. So far, we have reached Gokwe South and Shurugwi districts,” said Mudoti.

He also urged parents not to discriminate children born with albinism, stressing the importance of equal treatment and recognition of their potential.

“If your child was born with albinism, do not despise him or her, treat these children equally. Some parents treat children with albinism like useless objects, yet many people with albinism are excelling in the world as doctors, journalists, and lawyers,” he said.

Mudoti acknowledged the Royal Family Albinism Trust, a Zimbabwean Botswana-based company, for sponsoring the sunscreen lotions.

I.P.A, Welfare and Logistics Coordinator Chiedza Muzondo encouraged encouraged people with albinism to seek prompt medical attention if they notice any unusual skin wounds to prevent serious health complications.

“I advise you to visit the doctor immediately if you notice a small wound on your skin. Early treatment can help avoid further complications like skin cancer,” Muzondo said.

Speaking to TellZim News after the event, Shurugwi Assistant District Development Coordinator Willard Gwerevende expressed gratitude for the donation, noting its potential to improve beneficiaries’ welfare and reduce school dropouts.

“I want to thank I.P.A for stretching a helping hand to people with albinism. Many in rural areas struggle to earn a living, making it difficult to afford sunscreen. When a child with albinism has these necessities, they can attend school without hindrance,” Gwerevende said.

Ward 10 Councillor Tarisai Murashiki also voiced profound appreciation, describing the donation as a major relief for the albinism community.

“This kind gesture is a true relief. Many people in rural areas simply cannot afford to buy sunscreen lotions,” Murashiki said.

Beneficiaries expressed joy and gratitude following the donation.

“I am very happy to receive this sunscreen lotion. Normally, I buy a 250ml bottle for US$24, which only lasts three weeks,” said Amina Ali.

Edmore Kadungure, another male beneficiary, shared similar sentiments saying he was relieved since the sunscreen lotion was a necessity

“I’m very happy to receive this sunscreen lotion, living without it is very difficult and at times we fail to get it due to financial challenges,” said Kadungure.

Morelight Mapingure, a primary school leaner said the donation would make a significant difference in her life, adding that she had often been ridiculed at school because of her skin condition.

“I’m very happy to receive the sunscreen that helps protect my skin. Some children used to laugh at me because of my condition,” she said.

The Integration of People with Albinism Organization was established in 2019 and officially registered in 2021.

Chivi livestock at risk as critical dam fails, boreholes dry up        

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Chivi livestock at risk as critical dam fails, boreholes dry up        

By Andrew Zhou

CHIVI – A severe water crisis is gripping the Chidyamakono Denge area in Chivi North, threatening the survival of both livestock and villagers as key water sources continue to diminish.

Chivi North Member of Parliament Godfrey Mukungunugwa described the situation as dire, confirming that Denge Dam, once a primary water source, was severely damaged by heavy rains in 2022.

During a recent visit to the site, Mukungunugwa reported that surveyors assessed the damaged dam in preparation for a borehole drilling programme as an immediate intervention. However, the situation remains critical, as most existing boreholes have also begun to fail.

“Denge Dam that used to sustain both people and livestock was damaged by heavy rains, and only two small portions of water are left. Surveyors have been on the ground, but immediate action is needed. Boreholes are also drying up, making life extremely difficult for both villagers and livestock farmers,” said Mukungunugwa.

The legislator expressed serious concern that without urgent intervention, many farmers risk losing their livestock, the backbone of livelihoods in this drought-prone district.

He appealed to government departments and development partners to implement urgent water solutions, including dam repairs and accelerated borehole drilling.

“There is need for urgent action since the villagers were relying only on the dam for irrigation purposes. The livestock are good looking now but if the borehole drilling scheme delays, farmers will lose their cattle and drought will strike the area. We are expected to receive about 35 boreholes and we want to give thanks to ZINWA as they surveyed the sites for immediate drilling,” said Mukungunugwa.

The crisis in Chidyamakono reflects the growing impacts of climate change across Zimbabwe, with rural communities like Chivi bearing the brunt of erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells.

Villagers who spoke to TellZim News said they were now entirely dependent on boreholes for their livestock’s survival.

They confirmed that the surveyors had identified sites for new boreholes, but the arrival of drilling equipment remains anxiously awaited.

“Our animals are weak and can’t go for long without water. We were relying on the dam. We are appealing for help before we lose everything. The surveyors have come and we are expecting the drill rig earlier before the situation worsens,” said one villager.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that climate-induced water shortages will continue to affect livestock and crop production in semi-arid regions unless sustainable water harvesting projects are implemented on a priority basis.

Jenya High School commissions state-of-the-art science laboratory

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Jenya High School commissions state-of-the-art science laboratory

By Andrew Zhou

CHIVI – Jenya High School in Chivi North recently officially opened a state-of-the-art science laboratory hub, marking a significant milestone expected to transform the teaching and learning of science subjects both at the school and across the district.

The laboratory was officially commissioned on October 3, 2025, during the school’s Speech and Prize-Giving Day by Chivi North Member of Parliament Godfrey Mukungunugwa.

School Head Tinashe Rubaya expressed immense pride in the new facility, emphasizing its potential to enhance practical learning and foster scientific innovation among students and teachers alike, in line with the practical-oriented Education 5.0 model.

“This science hub is a dream come true for both our teachers and students. We can now conduct experiments effectively, which will greatly enhance our pass rates and interest in STEM subjects. We are grateful to all partners and parents who contributed towards this achievement,” said Rubaya.

Mukungunugwa, who was guest of honor, commended the school for prioritizing science education, describing the laboratory as a beacon of progress for rural schools across the district.

“The opening of this science hub marks a new chapter for Chivi North. It proves that our schools can match national standards when communities, government, and stakeholders work together. I urge learners to make full use of this facility and pursue careers that will drive innovation and development in our country,” said Mukungunugwa.

Chivi District Schools Inspector Dr. Evershine Ndongwe also applauded Jenya High for its commitment to academic excellence and urged further development of learner welfare infrastructure.

“This is a model school that others should emulate. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is proud to see such tangible progress in the implementation of the competency-based curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning and scientific inquiry,” said Dr. Ndongwe.

He added that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry had cited Jenya High as an exemplary institution during an education showcase in Zambia.

Dr Ndongwe further encouraged the school to work towards establishing low-cost boarding facilities and acquiring a school bus to ease transport challenges for learners traveling long distances.

The event featured learner performances, science project exhibitions, and awards for outstanding pupilsand teachers.

Attending parents and community members praised the school’s leadership for an initiative they believe will significantly raise educational standards in the district.

Equipped with modern apparatus and safety systems, the new laboratory hub is designed to serve both Ordinary and Advanced Level science learner, positioning Jenya High School among the best-equipped rural schools in Chivi District.

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