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Masvingo gears up for 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo

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Masvingo gears up for 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo

By Tadiwa Shunje

Preparations for the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, set to be hosted in Masvingo in September 2026, are gathering momentum following an all-stakeholders meeting held on February 13 to map out strategies, partnerships and logistical arrangements for the prestigious event.

Masvingo Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, said the province recorded more than 50,000 visitors in 2025, with authorities expecting the upcoming expo to significantly boost tourist arrivals while positioning Masvingo as a leading tourism and business destination.

“Masvingo is committed to hosting a successful and well-organised event, the expo will place the province in both national and international spotlight,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.

Masvingo has expressed readiness to host the international showcase, with over 900 rooms currently available across the city and surrounding areas. Stakeholders are also planning to expand accommodation capacity to meet anticipated demand.

“We currently have over 900 rooms available, and efforts are underway to increase that number. Preparations are being undertaken with a focus on inclusive participation so local communities and businesses benefit from the expo,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.

Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi said communities play a crucial role in attracting visitors by embracing and promoting their culture while warmly welcoming guests.

“We are the ones who attract visitors when we proudly showcase our culture. Tourists return home with a positive image of who we are,” said Rwodzi.

The event will be held at Masvingo Gymkhana Grounds from September 9 to 12, 2026. Conference sessions are scheduled for September 9–10, followed by business-to-business engagements from September 10–11, while a public day is expected to draw hundreds of local visitors.

The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo is Zimbabwe’s premier tourism showcase, attracting local and international exhibitors, investors and buyers.

Hosting the 2026 edition is expected to boost Masvingo’s tourism profile, stimulate infrastructure development, and create investment and employment opportunities within the province.

The expo was first held in Bulawayo in 2008 and has since grown into a major national and international tourism and investment platform. The 2025 edition was hosted in Mutare, while the 2026 event will mark the first time Masvingo hosts the expo.

Masvingo is home to some of Zimbabwe’s most significant cultural, historical and natural attractions. Key sites earmarked for promotion during the expo include Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site, Gonarezhou National Park, Lake Mutirikwi and Tugwi-Mukosi Dam, offering visitors a diverse mix of heritage, wildlife, leisure and adventure tourism.

Registration of hospitality facilities critical ahead of Sanganai Hlanganani Expo

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Registration of hospitality facilities critical ahead of Sanganai Hlanganani Expo

By Karen Sibanda

Government has underscored the urgent need for hospitality facilities in Masvingo to register and comply with national standards as the province prepares to host the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo in September at Gymkhana.

Speaking at the Sanganai Hlanganani All Stakeholders Meeting held recently at Flamboyant Hotel, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, said compliance was not optional but mandatory ahead of the high-profile event.

“Registration of hospitality facilities is not optional but mandatory as we prepare for the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo. We must ensure that every restaurant, lodge and guest house operating in Masvingo is properly registered and compliant with national standards. We want visitors to experience the best services under regulated and certified establishments,” said Rwodzi.

She warned that unregistered operators risk tarnishing the province’s reputation, particularly during events that attract both local and international exhibitors and tourists. Proper registration, she noted, allows government to monitor health standards, enforce tourism regulations and provide structured support to businesses.

Rwodzi added that formalising operations enhances investor confidence and strengthens Masvingo’s position as a competitive tourism destination.

“When facilities are registered, it builds trust with visitors and partners. It also ensures fairness in the industry and accountability among operators,” she said.

The Sanganai Hlanganani Expo, scheduled for September at Gymkhana, is expected to attract stakeholders from across the country and beyond, placing preparedness and compliance within the hospitality sector high on the Government’s agenda.

The Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, was represented at the meeting by the Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Province and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa.

Gororo solar-powered irrigation scheme commissioned

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Gororo solar-powered irrigation scheme commissioned

 
 By Virginia Njovo

The 50-hectare, solar-powered Gororo Irrigation Scheme has been officially commissioned in Chivi South, Masvingo Province, marking a major boost to climate-resilient agriculture and rural livelihoods in the area.

The scheme was commissioned by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Ezra Chadzamira, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri. The event was also attended by representatives from the British Embassy and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Part of a broader rural development programme aimed at inclusive growth, the Gororo Irrigation Scheme is currently benefiting more than 70 households in Chivi South Ward 28. A second phase is expected to expand the scheme to 250 hectares, enabling more households to participate in commercial agriculture and supply both local and international markets.

Speaking during a tour of the project, Minister Chadzamira said the irrigation scheme represents resilience, economic opportunity, and a more secure future for the local community.

“For over 30 years, our province has endured the harsh effects of climate change,” he said. “Relentless heat, erratic rainfall, and prolonged dry spells have brought hardship to our communities. Today, we are celebrating human ingenuity, strong partnerships, and a commitment to building sustainable livelihoods.”

He added that irrigation remains critical for Masvingo Province, which now has 76 communal irrigation schemes, noting that such projects are lifelines for communities in drought-prone areas like Chivi.

UNDP Resident Representative Dr Ayodele Odusola said the organisation continues to prioritise support for vulnerable and marginalised communities through climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.

“We are increasing access to water for agriculture through climate-resilient irrigation inputs, practices, and markets,” he said. “Improved access to weather, climate, and hydrological information is essential for strengthening food security and resilient livelihoods in Zimbabwe.”

Dr Odusola noted that the Climate Adaptation Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP) was introduced at a critical time when the world is facing a triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Representing the British Embassy, Head of Human Development and Inclusion Sam Thompson thanked all partners involved in the project.

“On behalf of the United Kingdom, I would like to thank the government departments of Irrigation and Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services for their technical support, the Chivi community for providing land and project sites, and UNDP for its expertise in implementing the project,” he said.

Gororo Irrigation Scheme chairperson David Madzivire said the project has transformed the economic prospects of the local community.

“This scheme has turned us into business people through farming,” he said. “We are now producing for export markets, which has improved our financial stability and ability to meet economic demands.”

The project was implemented by the United Nations Development Programme with funding from the British Embassy’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. It is led by the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, with the Ministry of Agriculture serving as an executing entity.

The development includes a 50-hectare irrigation scheme powered by a 152-kilowatt solar mini-grid, 30 domestic biogas digesters, and eight community water points.

Innovate or risk extinction, Absolute Security staff told

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Innovate or risk extinction, Absolute Security staff told

By Virginia Njovo

Staff at Absolute Security Services have been urged to embrace innovation and technological advancement or risk losing relevance in the security sector amid ongoing technological innovations. 

Speaking during the company’s appreciation dinner held recently at Urban Lifestyles Hotel  in Masvingo held under the theme ‘An Evening of Appreciation, Future Secured’ guest of honour Dr Noah Zulu warned that companies which fail to adapt to rapid economic and technological change risk becoming obsolete.

“The economy is changing and technology is moving fast. If we lack innovation and creativity, we become people without purpose and what is left is for us to expire,” said Dr Zulu.

Dr Zulu challenged the security firm to consider how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics could be integrated into its operations to enhance efficiency and remain competitive.

“AI is already transforming industries. Robotics technology is coming. The question is: how does Absolute make these technologies relevant to its services? If you become irrelevant, you will have no purpose. But if you innovate and define your purpose, you will grow to greater heights,” he said.

In his remarks, Absolute Security Services Managing Director Thulani Sibanda expressed gratitude to employees, stakeholders and spouses for supporting the company since its establishment in 2018.

“I am grateful to all our stakeholders who have worked with us since our inception in 2018. Your commitment has brought us this far. Our spouses play a pivotal role in our success. They ensure our officers come to work prepared and supported. In many ways, you are security officers too. Continue supporting your partners as they serve in this demanding profession,” said Sibanda.

Founded in 2018 by Sibanda, Absolute Security Services has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s expanding private security firms, with Noraz Surgical Clinic as its first client.

Beyond traditional guarding services, the company has diversified into car insurance, EcoCash services, ZB agency services, firearms training for members of the public and insurance agencies.

With its motto, “To Serve and to Protect,” the company remains committed to adapting to industry changes while strengthening service delivery.

Jichidza High head retires after 41 years of service

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Jichidza High head retires after 41 years of service


By TellZim Reporter

Dedicated educator and Jichidza High School head, Thompson Charambira, has retired after 41 years of service, bringing to a close a journey that began on January 1, 1984. His career, though not always smooth sailing, reached its destination with dignity and honour.

Born on February 2, 1962, Charambira’s path into education was shaped by determination and purpose. He completed his O Levels at Zimuto High School in 1979 before enrolling at Hillside Teachers College, where he obtained a Certificate in Education in 1983.

Armed with youthful ambition and a passion for teaching, he joined Jichidza High School on January 1, 1984, a date that marked the beginning of more than four decades of dedicated service to the institution.

In 1992, Charambira rose to the position of Acting Deputy Head, a role he served faithfully for 18 years until 2010. Demonstrating a commitment to professional growth, he furthered his studies and obtained a BSc Education Honours Degree from Bindura University in 2006.

His leadership journey culminated in 2019 when he was appointed substantive Head, a position he held with distinction until his retirement.

At his farewell ceremony, speaker after speaker paid tribute to a leader described as humble, visionary and hardworking. Colleagues and stakeholders portrayed him as a patient listener and dependable advisor who led by example. Many highlighted his open-door policy, fairness and steady guidance that shaped both staff and students.

Reformed Church in Zimbabwe Moderator, Rev. Dr. Ezekiel Baloyi, chronicled Charambira’s life journey, from his days as a pupil at Zimuto High School to his rise as an accomplished educationist and school head.

“Looking at the life of Mr Charambira, it is a reminder that leadership is not built overnight, but through years of consistency, sacrifice and faith. His legacy will endure not only in school records or official titles, but in the lives he touched, the careers he nurtured and the institution he helped strengthen,” said Rev. Dr. Baloyi.

Representing Zaka North Member of Parliament Ophias Murambiwa, Kenias Dick used the occasion to pledge the long-awaited upgrade of the 106km road from Jichidza to Chimedza before the end of 2026.

“We promise that the long-awaited upgrading of the road from Jichidza to Chimedza will be completed before 2026 comes to an end,” said Dick.

The ceremony also attracted distinguished guests, including representatives from the Ministry of Education, heads of NAPH and NASH, Chief Nyakunhuwa’s representative, church leadership and fellow heads from RCZ schools reflecting the high regard in which he is held beyond the school community.

As Jichidza High School turns a new page, it does so standing firmly on the foundation built by a man whose life’s work became intertwined with the school’s history.

Reformed Church in Zimbabwe mourns Rev Magadure

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Reformed Church in Zimbabwe mourns Rev Magadure

By Virginia Njovo

The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) is mourning the passing of Reverend Magadure Magadure, a devoted servant of God whose ministry was marked by humility, faith and dedication.

Rev Magadure, who was born on May 20, 1974, in the area under Chief Mugabe in Masvingo, died on February 3, 2026, at his rural home. He was 51.

Known for his deep commitment to the Church and the community, Rev Magadure devoted his life to serving as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament. He was also fondly remembered for his favourite hymn, “Kana vakundi vopinda kudenga, ndinoda kuva mumwe wavo kana vopinda,” reflecting his longing for eternal life in Christ.

Rev Magadure began serving the Church in its printing press department from 2010 to 2014. In 2015, he answered the call to ordained ministry and enrolled at Murray Theological College to pursue theological studies in preparation for the Ministry of the Word and Sacrament. He completed his training in 2018.

On December 2, 2018, he was ordained and began his ministerial journey at RCZ Chikwanda Congregation in Gutu. He faithfully served the congregation for six years before retiring on medical grounds on December 17, 2024.

Speaking at his burial on February 5, 2026, RCZ Moderator Rev Dr Ezekiel Baloyi described Rev Magadure as a true devotee of Christ whose legacy would endure.

“Rev Magadure’s ministry was marked by humility, dedication and faithfulness. His efforts will remain etched in the life of the Church and in the hearts of those he served. He was instrumental in the growth of the RCZ, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations,” said Rev Dr Baloyi.

Quoting Revelation 14:13 — “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… Yes, says the Spirit, they will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them”, Rev Dr Baloyi said the Church was giving thanks for a life lived in faithful service.

“The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe has been robbed of a giant in the Ministry of the Word and Sacrament, but we commend his soul to the Lord,” he said.

Rev Magadure is survived by his wife, Svitsai, and their four children two boys and two girls.

Gokwe school appeals for financial assistance after storm destroys 5 classrooms

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Gokwe school appeals for financial assistance after storm destroys 5 classrooms

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

Magede Primary School in Chirima, Gokwe South District is struggling to cope after two classroom blocks were destroyed by strong winds in December last year and is appealing for financial assistance to restore roofs and furniture that were destroyed. 

The storm blew away one block with three classrooms and another block with two classrooms, forcing the school to introduce hot seating sessions and abandon its previous single-session system.

School head Marshall Masango confirmed the development to TellZim News and  said before the disaster classroom space was adequate for all 351 learners enrolled at the school.

“Before the storm, we had enough classrooms to accommodate all our learners comfortably under one session. After losing the two blocks, we were forced to introduce hot seating for Grades 1 to 3, while Grades 4 to 6 are now exchanging classrooms,” said Masango.

Masango said the situation has resulted in severe overcrowding particularly among Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners with the arrangement said to be negatively impacting learning time.

“We now have 93 ECD learners sharing one classroom and some learners are being taught outside due to limited space. Our learners are no longer able to have their full eight lessons per day because we have to divide the available time and space. Even sporting activities have been affected because we are trying to maximise limited classroom time,” he said.

The heavy rains that were accompanied by strong winds destroyed textbooks, stationery, windows, pens and other learning materials after the classrooms were left exposed.

School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, Debra Lunga said the school was appealing for assistance to restore normal learning conditions.

“We estimate that about US$9 000 is needed for the roofing alone. We are appealing for support in cash or kind to enable us to rebuild or repair the damaged classroom blocks and replace the furniture, textbooks and exercise books that were destroyed,” she said.

Magede Primary has 11 teachers serving the 351 learners.

The school is calling on government, corporates and well-wishers to urgently intervene to prevent further disruption of learning.

Well-wishers who wish to assist can deposit funds into the school’s account:

Magede Primary School
Bank: CBZ
Branch: Gokwe South
Account Number: 01723835660044

Fishing trip ends in tragedy for Chiredzi man

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Fishing trip ends in tragedy for Chiredzi man

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

MASVINGO – A routine fishing trip ended in tragedy for James Rushwaya (44) of Section 7 in Hippo Valley, Chiredzi, after he died in a suspected crocodile attack at Manhuwe river on February 4, 2026. 

Acting Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing.

“We confirm the death of Rushwaya from Hippo Valley in Chiredzi who died after he had gone for a fishing trip at Manhuwe Village. His body was discovered with missing body parts. Investigations are still ongoing,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Assistant Inspector Patinyu urged members of the public to avoid fishing or working in crocodile-infested rivers, warning that such areas remain extremely dangerous.

“We urge all members of the public to avoid entering or fishing in crocodile-infested rivers and water bodies. These animals are dangerous, especially during the rainy season when water levels rise. Always be alert and keep a safe distance from riverbanks,” he said.

Circumstances are that  Rushwaya left his home on the day in question at around 9 AM intending to fish using casting nets.

Rushwaya returned home that day, prompting concern from his friends and family who began searching for him.

The search continued into the following day, February 5, but Rushwaya was still not found. 

On February 6, villagers teamed up and went to the river after suspecting that he may have been attacked by a crocodile.

During the search, villagers discovered Rushwaya’s clothes on the riverbank. 

About 200 metres from where the clothes were found, they spotted his body floating in the river and retrieved it.

Police attended the scene and observed that the body had missing body parts, including the right leg and private parts, which are consistent with injuries caused by a crocodile attack.

Rushwaya’s body was taken to Chiredzi Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination.

Crocodile attacks across the country tend to rise during the rainy season when higher water levels expand habitats and increase human activity on rivers and lakes, such as fishing and crossing waterways. 

Wildlife authorities have reported numerous human-crocodile conflict cases in recent seasons, with several fatalities and injuries recorded, particularly around water bodies where people and crocodiles share space.

Murray Theological College holds 101st licensing ceremony

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Murray Theological College holds 101st licensing ceremony

By Virginia Njovo

Just months after celebrating its centenary, Murray Theological College of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe marked another milestone with its 101st licensing ceremony, during which seven candidate ministers were officially licensed.

The ceremony which was held at Morgenster Congregation Church recently was attended by senior church leaders from across the country and beyond. Among those present were the Moderator, Rev Dr Ezekiel Baloyi, General Secretary Rev Lovemore Mashamba, Actuary Rev Charles Juro, and other members of the Synodical Executive.

The service was held under the theme ‘Called to Illuminate: Living as Salt and Light of the World,’ drawn from Matthew 5:13–16. Delivering the sermon, Rev S Kugedera urged the newly licensed ministers to remain faithful to Christ’s teachings as they begin their journey of service.

“As you embark on this new journey of leading God’s people, you are called to be the light. Lead with passion and humility, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you as you live according to Christ’s word,” said Rev Kugedera.

College Principal Rev Dr Simbarashe Munamati, commended the candidates for their dedication and praised the institution’s commitment to holistic ministerial formation.

“Hard work, dedication, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit have brought them this far. As an institution, we have equipped them with knowledge, skills, and character to serve both God and humanity,” said Rev Dr Munamati.

Rev Dr Munamati said the college strives to foster spiritual growth, intellectual curiosity, and practical application.

“To our brothers, I say go forth with courage, conviction, and compassion. May your studies and experiences help you make a meaningful impact as messengers of love,” he said.

The church’s Moderator, Rev Dr Ezekiel Baloyi, reminded the newly licensed ministers that ministry is a sacred calling rooted in service rather than titles.

“A good minister is not known by position or title. It is a sacred calling to shepherd God’s people with faithfulness, humility, and courage,” said Rev Dr Baloyi.

He emphasized the importance of grounding ministry in both scripture and church order.

“The Bible must be in your right hand, for it is the living Word of God and the source of truth and spiritual nourishment. In your left hand must be the Book of Church Order, which will guide you in your service,” he said.

The newly licensed candidate ministers are Loveson Chiwara, Innocent Mawaya, Felix Mugwisi Tigere, Gerald Mupazi, Tafadzwa Ndaba, Shepard Nemarundwe, and Tsaurai Ruhode.

Econet sounds alarm over surge in EcoCash scams, phone thefts

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Econet sounds alarm over surge in EcoCash scams, phone thefts

By Karen Sibanda

MASVINGO – Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has urged residents in Gutu and Bikita to stay alert after a spike in EcoCash-related scams and mobile phone theft, which have left many customers vulnerable to financial losses.

Speaking at the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo Province Awareness Campaign at Gedhemaranganyika Business Centre in Chief Budzi’s area, Econet’s Gutu and Bikita area manager, Principle Fungai Chikaura, warned that criminals are increasingly exploiting unsuspecting EcoCash users despite the platform’s robust security systems.

“EcoCash is secure, but criminals are taking advantage of people’s lack of awareness,” Chikaura said. We continue to receive reports of scammers calling customers, pretending to be Econet employees, and demanding EcoCash PINs,” said Chikaura.

He said customers should be aware that no Econet staff member will ever request a customer’s security PIN. Customers should treat any such calls as criminal attempts.

“Scammers are reportedly using deceptive tactics, including claims of ‘network upgrades,’ ‘account verification,’ or promises of prizes to trick users into revealing sensitive information,” said Chikaura. 

Chikaura cautioned against clicking suspicious online links or responding to unsolicited messages, even during promotional campaigns like Joy After Joy.

“All official communication from Econet is through verified social media platforms, our official website, or recognised customer care hotlines. We never send random links asking customers to claim prizes,” he said.

Chikaura praised the initiative, highlighting that collaboration between law enforcement, service providers, and the public is essential to curb fraud and cybercrime. He urged residents to report any suspicious calls, messages, or transactions immediately to Econet or the police to prevent further losses.

Mobile phone theft also remains a pressing concern, with stolen devices often exploited to access EcoCash accounts lacking adequate security measures.

The awareness campaign, organised by the ZRP, brought together police officers, traditional leaders, community members, and private sector stakeholders to promote crime prevention and digital safety.

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