Joy and jubilation erupted in the remote areas of Mwenezi as pupils, teachers, and the community celebrated the Makugwe Primary School girls’ soccer team’s impressive victory during the Zonal competitions securing a ticket to represent the zone at district level. The team, representing Cluster 15, displayed a classical touch of soccer, beating Takadevhu Primary School, which represented Cluster 14, in the final. The match, held at Maranda Primary School, ended in a stalemate 0-0, but Makugwe emerged victorious in penalties. Before reaching the final, Makugwe had impressive wins against Cluster 16 (Peter Peregwe Primary), scoring 2-0, and Cluster 2 (Machena Primary), winning on penalties after a goalless draw. The team’s head coach, Nicholas Goredema, affectionately known as “Bhudhi Mboma,” expressed his delight and promised a strong performance in the next stage. The team’s impressive display, left spectators in awe. The goalkeeper, Crenna Zhou made excellent saves, keeping a clean sheet in some matches. The solid defense, led by sweeper Prudence Shumba, was reminiscent of Zimbabwean legend Dazzy “Delio” Kapenya. The midfield duo of Regina Zhou and Aisha Shumba, also known as Madhawu, worked tirelessly, coordinating their movements to perfection. Thembi Ngwenya, nicknamed “Mazvese,” was the outstanding player of the day in the final match, showcasing pace and deft touches that left markers struggling to keep up. With their impressive performance, Makugwe will represent the Zone at the Inter-district competitions, set to take place in Rutenga. The team assistant coach Paul Tigerwe also promised fireworks as the team prepares to face long-time powerhouses like Chingami, Masogwe, and Rutenga.
Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital is appealing for assistance to support its agricultural initiatives, aiming to improve the institution’s productivity and contribute to food security. The hospital heavily depends on external funding and hand-outs from well-wishers and the corporate world to sustain operations. Speaking to TellZim News, Ngomahuru Medical Superintendent Parirenyatwa Maramba said they were pleading for sponsorship to set up an irrigation system. “If sponsored, we can become self-sustainable, boosting the welfare of our patients. Ngomahuru has survived on donations for decades and yet we have underutilized land that at the institution. If sponsored we can become self-sustainable since we are already a charity home, doing everything for free,” Maramba said. He said they were into cattle and goat farming but at a very smaller scale that it cannot sustain them and needed more to expand. “The hospital currently engages in small-scale cattle and goat farming and we hope to expand the livestock production. If we get the sponsorship we are seeking, we can then become self-sufficient and improve patient care,”said Maramba. The hospital faces significant challenges, including deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate resources, and insufficient support for patients. The institution’s buildings and sewer systems are outdated, and there is a shortage of essential supplies, including detergents. Many patients face neglect, with some being abandoned by their relatives without financial support or visits. Some have been admitted for more than 20 years. In some cases, families fail to claim the bodies of deceased patients, leaving the hospital to handle the burden. The stigma surrounding mental illness exacerbates these challenges, leaving patients reliant on the nursing staff and fellow patients for support. The hospital’s financial struggles have resulted in limited capacity to provide quality care, and the introduction of a private ward has offered some relief, generating revenue to meet basic needs. Nevertheless, the institution requires substantial support to address its systemic challenges and provide adequate care for its patients.
After nearly 20 years of separation caused by internal leadership disputes, the Free Methodist Church of Zimbabwe has officially reunited, marking a significant milestone in the church’s history. The church celebrated the reconciliation on July 13, 2025, ending years of division that had led to the formation of two factions: Free Methodist Church of Zimbabwe A and B. The rift, which began in 2007, was a result of disagreements among senior church leaders. The matter eventually spilled into the courts, which ruled that those who had broken away could only return if they adhered to the church’s constitutional framework. Church Bishop Isaya Isaiah Masiya expressed deep satisfaction at the reunion, saying the prolonged split had hindered the church’s growth and fractured fellowship among congregants. “I am happy with what has happened today, after having spent many years with the church split. Our members had conflicts, and the matter went out of hand. We went to the courts, where it was ruled that the other members who had left should submit to the constitution of the church. “We have tried so many times to reconcile to no avail. The separation affected how we fellowshipped, especially among congregants, and it affected our growth,” said Bishop Masiya. He acknowledged the role played by regional Bishops in encouraging reconciliation. “I am grateful to other bishops in various countries in the region who have kept encouraging us to reunite. We have also been discussing this with other pastors, questioning why we are not getting along when we are preaching love to congregants. To the fellow congregants, we invite them back since we have reunited. Let us continue with the good work of the Lord together,” he said. Local pastor Kabelo Dube, who had been among those who left, reflected on the impact the split had on the church. “We left this place for the past 20 years and have been fellowshipping elsewhere with a section of the people who were not satisfied with what had happened. We lost quite a number of congregants because of that division. It is not easy to invite a person to church to the point where they become a member. “This division hurt us as a church because we saw many people even stopping going to church. These divisions affect congregants more than leaders because they have their trust in them, believing we should lead in the same direction, and when we split, they do not know where to go,” said Pastor Dube. He said despite the breakaway, their spiritual attachment to the church remained though it took long for them to reunite with others. “We were not able to change the name of the church because our hearts were still with the church. We did not leave because we were against the doctrine of the church, but the leadership of the moment chased us away. “Though we wanted to come back, but it took long for us to be heard until 2023, where an area fellowship involving Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe gave us a chance to air our grievances. We are grateful that later on in April, the Bishop requested us to resubmit our queries, leading to this development,” said Pastor Dube. Dube said the conflict had begun with accusations against pastors who were allegedly not following church doctrine, which resulted in the dismissal of eight pastors. “The split was caused by conflicts between the leadership back then, which accused some of the pastors of not following the doctrines, and eight pastors were fired. The matter was brought to the courts, and we thought it was better if we stopped the fighting. We stopped responding to some of the court processes, and the other section won the case.” Despite the painful past, Dube said the group’s return was motivated by their belief that the church was bigger than any individual. “We were inspired to reunite because this church does not belong to anyone. It was started by missionaries who had a desire for Zimbabweans to know God. Hence, we thought we should all come back together,” he said. A congregant who witnessed the reunion said they were relieved and hopeful that things will improve for the better.
The Carling Black Label provincial pool tournament, held at StopOver Gardens on July 12, 2025, ended with an exciting finish. Four winners secured a ticket to represent the province at the national tournament in Bulawayo next month (August). Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) student Lisa Marumbwa and Malvern Manamike were crowned provincial champions in the female and male categories, respectively. Their impressive performances throughout the tournament were rewarded with a US$200 cash prize and five cases of Black Label cans, each containing four six-packs. In the female category, Ester Mutambanebanga won second position, followed by Patience Pasipamire and Charity Katema. Tapiwa Musaona came second in the male category, followed by Pride Mananavire and Gamuchirai Jani. The top two in each category will proceed to the next tournament. A total of 152 males and 12 females, drawn from across the province, participated in the provincial tournament, showcasing the growing popularity of pool in the region. In an interview with TellZim News, Marumbwa said she was excited that she won the tournament, though it came as a surprise. “The tournament was a bit tough. It wasn’t an easy one since everyone played their best and wanted to win. I faced a serious challenge of panicking during game time. My opponent would lead while I trailed behind, but I focused throughout till I reached the finals and won. The main secret behind my success is consistency and love for the game. Pool is a sport that I have loved, and whenever I play, I play wholeheartedly. “I dedicate my success in my mother, who is my biggest supporter. Not all parents allow their children to play pool, especially a girl child. I am grateful to my coaches, Trust Asima Makwinja and Martin, for their guidance,” said Marumbwa. Marumbwa also said she was going to train harder to excel at the national tournament. “At the national level, I am going to do my level best to raise our province’s name high. I will do everything in my power to make my fellow pool players proud of me.” Manamike said he was excited about winning such a tournament for the first time. “I was overwhelmed with joy when I won the tournament. I felt I had achieved something big, though there is still a long way to go. This is my first win at a provincial level, but it’s not going to be the last,” said Manamike. He also said the early stages of the tournament were easy, but it got tough towards the end. “The tournament went so well in the early stages, and I was so relaxed because I was playing against people who were yet to make their names in the sport. However, when I reached the final, the game became tougher because I played against last year’s champion, who had a lot of support from the people, but I was composed and won the game. I said I was going to put more effort into training for the national tournament since I would be carrying the province’s name,” he said. Masvingo Pool Association Vice Chairperson Kudakwashe Mudekunye said the level of competition was different from last year’s and they believed in the winners. “The level of competition was fairly high, and most of the top players were eliminated in the first and second rounds, giving the opportunity for less popular players to emerge and excel in the competition,” said Mudekunye. Mudekunye said they were happy with the number of participants that increased in the male category but noted a decrease in the female category. “The number of participants was higher than last year, where we had almost 100 participants, and this year we had 152 participants in the men’s category, which shows sport growth in Masvingo. However, there was a slight decrease in the women’s category because last year we had about 20 participants,” he said. As the champions prepare for the national tournament, anticipation builds within the community. The success of the event not only highlights the talent in Masvingo but also strengthens the bond among local players and proves to be a significant platform for talent identification and development.
Malvern Manamike( left) male category champion pose for a photo with MAPA Vice Chairperson Kudakwashe Mudekunye (right)
A tragic road accident claimed the life of one passenger and left six others injured on July 14, at around 0700hours along Ngundu-Tanganda Road. The accident happened near the 87km peg after the driver of a Nissan Caravan minibus lost control of the vehicle and hit a stationary truck. Masvingo Provincial Assistant Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the incident to TellZim News and urged members of the public to prioritize their safety when driving on the road. “I confirm the death of one person in an accident that happened along Ngundu Tanganda road. Drivers must always be attentive and cautious, especially when approaching stationary vehicles. Road safety remains a shared responsibility,” said Ass Insp Patinyu. The accident occurred when a silver Nissan Caravan minibus that was carrying 12 passengers, driven by Nelson Jawa (27) lost control and collided with a stationary international truck. The truck, which had a mechanical breakdown, was parked on the roadside with its hazard warning triangles properly placed at the front and rear. The impact caused the minibus to overturn once before landing on its right side. One female passenger, Tendai Zimove of Triangle, died on the spot after sustaining severe head injuries. Six other passengers were injured in the crash, with one reported to be unconscious and the remaining five in stable condition. Police and emergency services attended the scene and the injured were rushed to Chiredzi General Hospital. The body of the deceased was also transported to the same facility.
. . .parents unsettled, worry over the ‘new teaching method’
By TellZim Reporter
A teacher from Mushavhi Secondary school in Bikita, (name withheld), has come under fire for allegedly collecting saliva samples from an entire class of learners, sparking concerns among parents about the unconventional teaching methods. Learners and parents who spoke to TellZim News questioned the unusual method used by the teacher during one lesson, and their primary concern is the unknown disposal of the soiled paper. The incident follows another one from Nehanda Primary School in the same district where two teachers allegedly draw blood from 19 pupils using syringes and parents are worried over the recurring unusual behavior by teachers. Contacted for comment by TellZim News, she asked the reporter to go back to the sources and ask them what had transpired or to visit the school to get more information. “Go back to the people who told you and ask them why I did that, they know or you can alternatively come to the school. There are some leaners who saw me disposing off the paper so I don’t know what’s the issue,” she said. The school head Peter Zvibodo was not available for comment as his cell went unanswered several times Leaners who spoke to TellZim and refused to be named for fear of reprisal said the teacher started the lesson by discussing self-preservation and self-control, particularly for girls, emphasizing the importance of avoiding promiscuity until they complete their education. To drive the point home, she allegedly asked all leaners to spit on a clean sheet of paper, with only two refusing to comply. The teacher then folded the paper and asked a student to write on it, but the leaner declined, citing the paper’s contamination with others’ saliva. The teacher allegedly used this demonstration to illustrate how others perceive someone who engages in promiscuous behavior, likening it to the soiled paper. She then took the folded paper outside, reportedly to dispose of it behind the toilets, raising concerns about the potential health and safety implications. What’s more disturbing is that despite leaners complaining to other teachers, the matter seems to have been swept under the rug. Education officials have visited the school multiple times, but the issue was never addressed sparking concerns that she could be connected to higher offices. “We were shocked that the matter seemed to have died within the school premises because it was never taken up. When we saw education officials visiting the school, we thought they had come for the matter, but we were shocked to learn they had come for another case involving the teacher and the head, not ours,” said one leaner. Parents who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of exposing their children called for an investigation into the teacher’s methods, questioning whether her approach was acceptable. “The teacher is new at the school, she came late last year, and we have never heard of such a method of teaching. She came from college to this school, and we want the education officials to investigate her case and hear if her way of teaching is accepted,” Other parents questioned her sincerity to want to dispose the paper herself whereas the class was full of leaners whom she could have asked to dispose the paper. “Why didn’t she end one of the leaners to dispose the paper, her saliva were not there so why was she not disgusted by the leaners’ saliva,” queried one parent
Zanu PF member Esau Mutanho is facing a US$150,000 lawsuit as compensation for violently disrupting the launch of the Footprints in the Chains: The Life of Job Sikhala book in Masvingo last week. The author, Munyaradzi Angero Savanhu, through his lawyers Mhishi Nkomo Legal Practice, has given Mutanho seven days to pay or face legal action. The book, which chronicles the political persecution of opposition politician Job Sikhala, was being launched at Charles Austin Theatre when chaos broke out and Mutanho was captured on video grabbing books from the stage and hurling them at attendees. “Our instructions are to demand, as we hereby do, that you immediately pay the sum of US$150,000 being compensation suffered by our client as a result of your unruly interruption at the launch within seven days. Failing which, we have instructions to institute legal proceedings without further notice,” reads part of the letter. Savanhu is seeking damages for vandalized equipment, stolen and destroyed books, venue and transport costs, and lost revenue from book sales. The author says 350 copies of the book were lost during the fracas. The legal notice also alleges that Mutanho and a group of others not only destroyed property but also physically targeted speakers. One individual reportedly threw a wooden pulpit at Dr. Takavafira Zhou, a guest speaker on stage. Savanhu told TellZim News that he had lost 200 copies of the books and 150 copies of his other books that were meant to be sold at the event. He also said he had failed to make a report to the police as he was told that the matter had to be reported to the DISPOL first before they could take note of the matter. Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa however denied saying no such
Mashava based side, Power FC maintained an impressive form, extending their unbeaten run to five matches in the Masvingo Provincial Soccer League, with a thrilling 4-2 win at home against Chiredzi Stars recently. The match, played at Bere Township Grounds on July 12, 2025, saw Power FC’s star striker Ronald T. Mukome (Mambo) scoring his 7th goal of the season. In an interview with TellZim News, Mukome expressed happiness over scoring numerous goals for the team, dedicating each one to his family, particularly his aunt, Asmin Chimbama, and the loyal Power FC fans. “I dedicate all my goals to my family and the fans because they’re the ones who give me support and motivation,” Mukome said. Mukome has scored one hat-trick, a brace, and singles in five appearances in the Division Two league. Chiredzi Stars got off to a flying start, scoring in the first minute of the match. However, Power FC quickly responded, equalizing around the 6th minute, with a well-taken goal that levelled the scores and set the tone for a thrilling encounter. Another standout performer for Power FC was the midfielder Nkosilathi Mabhena (21), who provided two crucial assists in the match. Mabhena’s vision and creativity on the pitch were instrumental in Power FC’s victory, and he continues to impress with his skills, having recorded ten assists and one goal this season. Power FC’s Head Coach, Maxwell Kwangwari told TellZimNews that he was thrilled by the team’s win and said the team’s aim was to maintain the winning streak. “We’re hoping to win more games so that we can clinch the top spot, especially since we have two games in hand. “The players played exactly according to what I taught them, which is why we managed to beat our opponent at home. We are promising our fans a win away against Rutenga-based First Touch FC over the coming to play,” said Kwangwari. The win has seen Power FC climb the league table to third position.
The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare recently held a three-day senior management retreat in Masvingo, themed ‘Transformative Leadership: Securing Tomorrow, Living with Purpose’. The retreat, which was held in partnership with the National Building Society (NBS) and the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), was aimed at equipping leaders with the necessary skills to address mental health, gender issues, and inclusivity in the workplace. The Ministry’s Director for Gender Mainstreaming, Inclusivity and Wellness, Ruvarashe Chigiya-Mujeni said the retreat was a response to a notable gap in addressing these critical issues. “We have seen a notable gap in addressing gender issues, inclusivity, and mental health. With these retreats, we aim to continuously equip our leaders with the necessary skills,” said Mujeni. The retreat featured sessions on adaptive leadership, emotional intelligence, and financial resilience. Renowned publisher, lawyer, and Human Capital Consultant, Dr. Arthur Marara, emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. “A leader should be adaptable to change and uncertainty. They need to lead with emotional intelligence, focusing on personal budgeting, debt management, investment strategies, and the psychology of money,” Said Marara. Winfield Strategy and Innovation Chief Executive Officer Precious Murena Nyika highlighted the need for self-awareness in leadership. Nyika also noted the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles, despite women constituting over 50 percent of the population. “There is a significant gap in women taking leadership positions, despite women comprising over 50 percent of the population. Sessions like these are essential for addressing inclusivity and equity in our institutions,” said Nyika. The retreat sought to empower leaders with practical tools to build inclusive workplaces and address biases effectively. By capacitating leaders on mental health, gender issues, and inclusivity, the ministry aims to create a more equitable and supportive work environment. The retreat is a step in the right direction towards promoting transformative leadership and creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture. By prioritizing the well-being and development of its leaders, the ministry is setting an example for other organizations to follow.
In a shocking revelation, teachers in the Fusira area of Masvingo South have reportedly joined the ongoing gold rush, engaging in illegal mining activities at night. Sources close to the matter indicate that the educators from Fusira, Musvovi, and Madzivanyika schools have been embroiled in the ongoing gold rush in Mudemba Village, Ward 27, Masvingo South Constituency, where 17 people have been arrested and taken to court for prospecting without a license. The move is seen as a symptom of the economic turmoil gripping the country, with many professionals struggling to make ends meet due to poor salaries and limited opportunities. As the gold rush continues to attract people from all walks of life, sources who spoke to TellZim News said teachers are seen at night and would return to their stations early in the morning for official duty. “Teachers from surrounding schools have joined the illegal mining, but they come at night and return in the morning,” said the source. Masvingo South Member of Parliament Tanatsiwa Mukomberi confirmed receiving the reports and urged villagers not to engage in illegal mining while at the same time urging authorities to ensure that locals benefit from natural resources in their area. “I have received a report of people that have been arrested over illegal mining in Ward 27 where there is a gold rush. Villagers, while they are entitled to the natural resources in their areas, should do the proper procedures and register their claims as required by the government. “Responsible authorities must also allow locals to benefit from whatever natural resources are in their areas. Each place has its own God-given resources, and so the people in that area must benefit from that. It is not fair to have people that come from afar have entitlement over resources in an area while locals do not benefit anything from it. In this case, the area in which there is a gold rush was allegedly given to someone else who has an EPO. They claimed the area, and nothing was done about it; it becomes a challenge now when there are cases like this as locals look to benefit from such resources,” said Mukomberi. A number of people have been arrested, with some getting charged to pay fines for minor offenses like transporting some resources related to the area, while others have appeared in court charged with prospecting without a license. Some sources who spoke to this publication said their plea was for responsible authorities to give tribute to the locals in the area for them to benefit and peg a block on which the community can mine.
