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Police hunt for suspect in Mkwasine murder case

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Police hunt for suspect in Mkwasine murder case

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

CHIREDZI – Police in Masvingo have launched a manhunt for a suspect linked to the murder of a 23-year-old man at his Mkwasine home in the early hours of Wednesday November 5.

The victim, Webster Dzivo of Admin A in Mkwasine, was discovered locked inside his room with multiple stab wounds after family members heard him crying out in agony around 2 AM.

Masvingo Provincial Police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident and appealed for information that may help identify and apprehend the suspect.

“We are appealing to members of the public to assist us with information that can help us find the suspect,” said Dehwa.

According to police reports, Evans Dzivo, a relative, and his wife were awakened by unusual sounds coming from Webster’s room. When they rushed to investigate, they found the door locked from inside and heard the victim crying in pain.

After forcing entry into the room, they discovered Webster lying motionless with two visible wounds, one on his back and another on his abdomen.

Police were immediately alerted and the body was transported to Chiredzi General Hospital for post-mortem examination.
This incident adds to growing concerns about violent crimes in the Masvingo province. Just last month, police reported several cases of armed robberies and assaults in the Chiredzi area, with some incidents occurring in residential

3 Perish as Truck Overturns Near Gutu

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3 Perish as Truck Overturns Near Gutu

By Ndinatsei Mavudza

GUTU – Three people were killed and five others injured when a haulage truck overturned near the 70km peg along the Chivhu-Masvingo road on October 31, 2025.

Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa, confirmed the incident to TellZim News, identifying the driver of the Gutu-bound truck as Edlight Mashayamombe, who was among the deceased.

Inspector Dehwa said the accident occurred when Mashayamombe attempted to overtake another vehicle but lost control after the truck slipped off the edge of the roadway.

HE urged motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, especially with the festive season approaching.

“We advise members of the public to be careful on the roads. They should obey traffic rules, avoid speeding and be particularly vigilant when overtaking, especially on busy or narrow roads, to prevent accidents,” said Dhewa.

The vehicle, which was carrying seven passengers, overturned once before landing on its roof, killing three people instantly.

When police officers arrived at the scene, they found the victims trapped in the wreckage. With assistance from Gutu Rural District Council, rescue teams managed to retrieve the bodies.

The five survivors were rushed to Gutu Mission Hospital for medical treatment while the deceased were taken to the hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations.

The accident comes amid increasing road traffic accidents across Masvingo Province, including a recent fatal crash at Exor that claimed the life of a 13-year-old girl after a Toyota Allion veered off the road and hit six pedestrians.

With more vehicles expected on the roads during the coming festive season, there is growing concern about the need for enhanced road safety measures to prevent further loss of life.

Masvingo Registry in paper crisis, runs out of BD1 forms

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Masvingo Registry in paper crisis, runs out of BD1 forms

TellZim Reporter

MASVINGO – The Masvingo Registry Office is grappling with a fresh crisis, having run out of “Notice of Birth” forms, a crucial document for birth registration.

The development comes barely a month after TellZim News exposed how the district registry had run out of basic receipt books, bringing services to a near standstill.

The situation is reportedly affecting several registry offices across the province, creating a domino effect of documentation delays for citizens seeking essential services.

According to a source within the department who spoke to TellZim News, the district office has completely stopped issuing birth notices, specifically the BD1 forms which are essential for the initial stage of registering a birth.

These forms serve as the primary record that remains with the registry offices once the actual birth certificate is issued to the applicant.

“We are not issuing notice of birth at the moment as we have run out of BD1 forms. The challenge with these forms is that they are specially printed at Fidelity Printers, unlike other stationery where we can improvise during shortages,” said the source.

The source further said the Renco Mine registry office was yet to receive receipt books and was not issuing lost identity cards and the same situation could be affecting other offices across the province.

“Our Renco Mine branch is still operating without the receipt books that we ran out a few weeks ago. It’s a mess. The problem isn’t just here in Masvingo town, several other registry offices across the province are facing the same challenges,” said the source.

Efforts to get a comment from the Minister of Home Affairs Kazembe Kazembe were futile as his cell went unanswered.

However, the permanent secretary in the same ministry Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, confirmed the challenges to TellZim News, pinning the blame on a critical shortage of funds.

 He revealed that the office’s struggles with receipt books and other stationery were part of a wider financial crunch that has now escalated to affect birth certificates.

“The stationery shortage is a common challenge now, remember the government issued a statute aimed at cutting down expenditure and that has affected us, But we have applied to the treasury for funding to make sure that our operations run as usual. We need to make sure that anyone who needs a birth certificate or ID gets it in time.”

The recurring paper shortages have turned the essential service into a source of frustration for locals, who now face unpredictable closures and delays for fundamental documents needed to access education, healthcare, and other government services across the province.

Gold rush turns deadly in Mashava mine machete attack       

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Gold rush turns deadly in Mashava mine machete attack       

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

MASHAVA – A 27-year-old man from Chief Masunda area in Zvishavane, Munashe Mache, died after being attacked with a machete during a violent clash at Devon 86 Mine, Mashava.

The incident, which occurred on October 28, 2025, was confirmed by Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu.

“I can confirm we have an incident where a man from Zvishavane died after being attacked by a machete after a violent clash at a mine in Mashava,” said Ass Inspector Patinyu.

According to the police, the tension started on October 15 when an estimated 300 artisanal miners, commonly known as makorokoza, allegedly discovered gold at Devon 86 Mine.

The mining claim owner Rodrick Muumbire (46) is said to have confronted the artisanal miners, informing them that the mine was registered in his name, but agreed to make arrangements to work together with them.

On October 28, at around 11 PM, Muumbire reportedly arrived at the mine from Zvishavane with an excavator, two tipper trucks and three men, including Mache, who had been brought to work at the mine.

Upon seeing this, the artisanal miners allegedly assumed that Muumbire intended to evict them, leading to a violent confrontation.

During the chaos and darkness of the night, one of the artisanal miners is said to have struck Mache with a machete, hitting him once in the back and once on the right wrist.

Despite his injuries, Mache managed to escape and was taken to Zvishavane District Hospital by a well-wisher.

He was later transferred to Gweru Provincial Hospital, where he died upon admission on October 30 due to the severity of his injuries. His body was taken to United Bulawayo Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

While artisanal mining remains a key source of income for many communities, violent incidents like this are becoming common.

Recently, , three artisanal miners killed their 22-year-old colleague by tying a rope on him and beating him severely with a switch after accusing him of stealing gold ore in Manyama area in Masvingo

Chiredzi Government High School Seeks US$3,300 to Finalize Kenya Debate Trip

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Chiredzi Government High School Seeks US$3,300 to Finalize Kenya Debate Trip

By Beatific Gumbwanda        

Chiredzi Government High School is racing against time to raise US$3,300 needed to send six talented public speakers to the High School Debate Challenge in Nairobi, Kenya in December this year.

 The school has so far gathered US$8,200 of the required US$11,500 total cost, thanks to generous community contributions.

A significant boost came from local sugarcane farmer Godknows Ganyani, who donated US$2,000, the largest single contribution to date. His support has revitalized the school’s efforts to secure adequate funding for the educational trip.

The debating team, consisting of Ngorima Manassah (Form 1), Runesu Praymore (Form 3), Zamayema Dorcas (Form 3), Dube Rutendo (Form 2), Dendera Tinashe (Form 5), and Machana Gayone Tinotenda (Form 5), earned the right to represent Zimbabwe after excelling in national competitions held at Amai Mugabe Group of Schools in Mazowe.

Former Ward 16 Councilor and war veteran Akim Temezani, who represented Ganyani during the donation ceremony, emphasized their commitment to the students’ success.

“We are here for you children because we have heard about the amazing things you’ve accomplished, including bringing home a trophy. We brought what we could, and we want to assure you that we will stand by you in whatever challenges you face,” he said.

In a further show of support, Ganyani also committed to covering the school head’s airfare, which was not included in the original budget.

School Development Committee Chairperson Felix Bhangu expressed gratitude for the donations while highlighting the urgency of securing the remaining funds.

“We appreciate this gesture, which will significantly help the children succeed in their trip. We have another batch of children who couldn’t go to Nigeria to represent our school due to lack of funding,” said Bhangu.

The school continues to appeal to community members and stakeholders to help bridge the funding gap and ensure these talented learners don’t miss this international educational opportunity.

Overcoming rural hardships, Colleta Zabuya graduates with 43 distinctions

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Overcoming rural hardships, Colleta Zabuya graduates with 43 distinctions

By Beverly Bizeki

Colletah Zabuya, a 2025 graduate from Midlands State University (MSU), emerged as the institution’s best-performing student, earning 43 distinctions and 14 prestigious accolades, a testament to her resilience and dedication despite a challenging upbringing in rural Bikita and Zaka.

The 14 accolades she got includes the MSU Book Prize, His Excellence and Chancellor Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa Award for Innovation at Undergraduate Level (USD 1000), His Excellence and Chancellor Cde. E.D. Mnangagwa Award for Overall Best Female Student at Undergraduate Level (USD 500), Econet Wireless Best Student in the Faculty, Chicken Inn Floating Shield for the Best Student in the Faculty, Coral Soft Award for the Overall Best Female Undergraduate Student , Coral Soft Award for the Best Student in the Faculty, Nicoz Award for the Best Student in the Faculty, ZB Bank Award for the Best Student in the Faculty, CBZ Award for the Three Best Students Graduating with a First Class in the Faculty, ZINARA Award for the Best Student in the Faculty, and NetOne Award for the Best Three Students Graduating with a First Class in the Faculty.

Her academic journey began in Bikita, where she and her twin brother were raised by their blind grandmother after their father’s passing.

“I grew up in the rural area of Bikita where life was never easy. Despite the challenges, our grandmother became our guiding light and source of strength,” Zabuya recalled.

She completed her primary education and advanced to St Joseph Tongoona High School in Zaka, where financial constraints threatened to cut her education short.

“Life was tough as the coffers were dry to cater for school fees, but through the aid of school staff and benefactors, I made it through O’Level,” she said.

After excelling at Ordinary Level, another sponsor supported her through Advanced Level, where she attained 15 points in Geography, Crop Science, and Biology.

“The motive behind choosing this combination was derived from my career aspirations in agriculture and environmental conservation,” said Zabuya.

The same sponsor later funded her tertiary education at MSU, where she pursued a degree aligned with her passion for sustainable development.

“I was motivated by agronomy as it contributes to Sustainable Development Goals, poverty eradication, zero hunger, and climate action. These targets will enable Zimbabwe to resurrect as the breadbasket of Southern Africa as enshrined in Vision 2030,” she said.

To support herself through university, Zabuya worked as a housekeeper for six months before enrolling and joined the government’s student employment programme at MSU.

“I worked as a housekeeper to meet basic needs. With high tuition fees, I joined the students on employment program, which provided free food and accommodation. Managing work and studies was difficult, but I committed to attending tasks and lectures during the day and studying at night,” she shared.

After four years of relentless effort, Zabuya graduated with a first-class degree, achieving an average GPA of 84 percent.

“My story should be a reminder that background is not a barrier. Even coming from a humble, rural place like Zaka Jerera and from a marginalized family, I excelled. Greatness is still possible when determination and faith meet,” Zabuya affirmed.

Now employed as an Agronomist at Farmers Choice, she plans to further her education and integrate artificial intelligence into agriculture.

“My vision is to leverage education and research in Agronomy, particularly through AI integration, to address pressing challenges in food security. I dream of pursuing an MSc and PhD to deepen my understanding of agricultural systems and explore innovative solutions,” she said.

Zabuya aims to implement AI-driven solutions such as precision agriculture, using data from soil sensors and weather forecasts to optimize resource use and increase yields.

“Through education, research, and collaboration, I believe we can make meaningful strides toward food security and sustainable agriculture,” she said

Zanu PF councilor hangs self in well after failed marriage reconciliation

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Zanu PF councilor hangs self in well after failed marriage reconciliation

Staff Reporter

BIKITA – A Zanu PF Ward 13 Councillor Elliot Chapinda (44) and Agritex Officer took his own life on Sunday (November 2) evening allegedly after his wife formally ended their marriage by presenting him with a divorce token.

Chapinda is alleged to have used a rope tied to a pole outside the well and slipped inside, where he was found by a neighbor who wanted to fetch water the following morning.

National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident and said investigations were underway to establish circumstances surrounding the councillor’s death. He revealed that preliminary information indicated the suicide was linked to marital problems.

“I can confirm we have a case where a man aged 44 allegedly committed suicide over marital problems that we are investigating, and we are yet to establish the full circumstances,” said Comm Nyathi.

Bikita Rural District Council Chairperson Thomas Mataga also confirmed the death of his colleague and said bottles of poison were discovered at the scene, though it was not clear if he took the poison.

“Some bottles of poison were found at the scene, but it was yet to be established if he took the poison before dying. The incident shocked us as council and Bikita residents; we have lost a good comrade,” said Mataga.

Sources revealed that Chapinda’s suicide came hours after his wife presented him with a divorce token (gupuro) in front of her family in Zaka.

“He had travelled with a friend to Zaka where his wife was in a final attempt to reconcile with his estranged wife, but the effort failed when she formally ended the marriage. He came back and went to his uncle’s place where he slept, only to slip away during the night before he was found dead the following day,” said a source.

Sources also alleged that he left a suicide note expressing his inability to live without his wife and children.

“He left a suicide note that said he could not continue living without his family, that is why he decided to end his life,” said the source.

Councillor Chapinda’s tragic death adds to a growing and concerning pattern of men resorting to suicide following marital and relationship breakdowns across Zimbabwe. Mental health experts note that societal expectations often prevent men from seeking emotional support during relationship crises, leaving them vulnerable to extreme decisions.

This tragedy follows another recent suicide in the district involving Bikita RDC CEO Peter Chibi, who also committed suicide in March last year over alleged pressure emanating from corruption charges leveled against him.

The Difference Between History and Heritage Studies: A Critical Analysis

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The Difference Between History and Heritage Studies: A Critical Analysis

By Aleta Makomeke – Opinionist and Senior Educationist

The distinction between History and Heritage Studies often sparks debate in educational circles, particularly when addressing their relevance and importance within a national curriculum. While both subjects delve into the past, their focus and outcomes are strikingly different. History is primarily the study of past events, focusing on understanding societal, political, and economic developments over time. It critically evaluates sources, interprets evidence, and seeks to reconstruct narratives about what happened and why. Heritage Studies, on the other hand, is more concerned with the preservation, celebration, and understanding of a community’s cultural identity, traditions, and values as passed down from generation to generation. While History seeks to analyze the past, Heritage Studies seeks to live it. 

The importance of each subject cannot be overstated. History equips learners with critical thinking and analytical skills, teaching them how to assess sources and arrive at reasoned conclusions. It fosters an understanding of change, continuity, and the interconnectedness of societies over time. Conversely, Heritage Studies instills a sense of belonging and identity, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation in an increasingly globalized world. By engaging with oral traditions, artifacts, and indigenous knowledge systems, Heritage Studies provides learners with a deeper understanding of who they are and where they come from. 

In Zimbabwe, the decision to make Heritage Studies a compulsory subject at  O Level in the Heritage-Based Curriculum reflects a deliberate effort to prioritize cultural preservation and national identity over a purely analytical engagement with the past. This decision stems from the recognition that Zimbabwe, like many African nations, has a rich but undervalued cultural heritage that is at risk of being eroded by Western influences. Heritage Studies provides a platform for learners to reconnect with traditional values, understand indigenous knowledge systems, and appreciate the sacrifices of liberation war heroes who fought for the nation’s independence. In contrast, History as a standalone subject often focuses on global narratives and colonial perspectives, which, while important, may not adequately address the specific needs of Zimbabwean learners to forge a strong national identity. 

This approach contrasts sharply with Nigeria’s recent policy to make History a compulsory subject from  primary school level. After removing History from its curriculum for over a decade, Nigeria realized the detrimental effects of sidelining the subject, including a generation that lacked a basic understanding of their nation’s past. Nigeria’s decision reflects the belief that History is essential for shaping informed citizens who can critically engage with their country’s political and social challenges. The Nigerian case underscores the importance of History in fostering critical thinking and national consciousness, demonstrating that while Heritage Studies may build identity, History builds intellectual capacity and civic awareness. 

Globally, both subjects have proven to be  transformative in different ways. Countries such as South Africa have successfully incorporated Heritage Studies into their curriculum to address the legacy of apartheid, promoting reconciliation and cultural pride. Similarly, Rwanda has leveraged Heritage Studies to foster unity and healing following the 1994 genocide. On the other hand, History has been pivotal in nations like Germany, where the rigorous teaching of the Holocaust has instilled a commitment to human rights and democracy. These examples highlight that both subjects, when properly implemented, can address specific national needs and foster societal growth. 

Career prospects aligned to each subject also demonstrate their unique contributions. History graduates often find opportunities in academia, research,law, journalism, international relations, and public administration, where their analytical and interpretative skills are highly valued. Heritage Studies, on the other hand, opens doors to careers in museum curation, cultural tourism, archaeology, and heritage management, which are increasingly relevant in countries seeking to leverage their cultural assets for economic growth. 

In the 21st century, where globalization and technological advancements are reshaping societies, the inclusion of either subject in the curriculum must align with contemporary dynamics. Heritage Studies offers a counterbalance to the homogenizing effects of globalization by promoting cultural distinctiveness and pride. It encourages sustainable tourism, which is a growing global industry. History, however, remains indispensable for fostering critical thinking and an informed citizenry capable of navigating complex political and social landscapes. A balanced curriculum that incorporates both subjects can produce learners who are not only proud of their heritage but also equipped to engage critically with the world around them. 

Zimbabwe’s decision to prioritize Heritage Studies reflects its unique historical and cultural context, but it must not completely discard the analytical rigor offered by History. Both subjects are essential in their own right, and their integration can create a holistic education system that prepares learners for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. The lessons from Nigeria and other countries serve as valuable reminders that the past, whether studied through the lens of History or Heritage Studies, remains a powerful tool for shaping the future.

 Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are my own and do not represent those of my employer or any organization l am affiliated with.

Masvingo farmers embrace sustainable growth through GEF-7 initiative

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Masvingo farmers embrace sustainable growth through GEF-7 initiative

By Virginia Njovo

Rural communities across Masvingo Province are experiencing a significant transformation in agricultural practices and livelihoods through the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF-7) Dryland Sustainable Landscapes Impact Program (DSL-IP).

Implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe, the programme is driving value addition, climate-resilient farming, and sustainable forest management throughout the region.

In districts like Zaka, smallholder farmers are increasingly adopting mechanized farming methods that enhance both productivity and climate resilience.

The strategic deployment of tractors, planters, and shellers has not only reduced labor intensity but also improved crop yields. This equipment is conveniently located near raw material sources to facilitate value addition for key crops including maize, soybeans, and small grains.

GEF-7 Project Coordinator Precious Marwadza highlighted the program’s focus on collective farmer empowerment in an interview with TellZim News.

“We have nearly 600 farmer groups across the Save and Runde sub-catchments, engaging in a range of activities from farming to value addition. Some are producing honey, wine, lotion, wax just to name a few,” said Marwadza.

Programme beneficiaries shared how the initiative has revolutionized their economic circumstances.

One member of a local company, Marula Zimbabwe, Wvelyn Masvimbo described the programme’s role in launching their business venture.

“Our company, Marula Zimbabwe, is based in Chivi Central Ward 16. We produce items such as shomwe, wine, marula butter, and resurrection tea, which we now sell on the market. Thanks to this, we can afford to send our children to tertiary education. We feel empowered our dignity as women has been restored,” she said.

Anna Rungwe from Shashe Agro Ecology emphasized the health advantages derived from the programme.

“We have gained confidence in our indigenous African crops, especially small grains. We practice organic farming without pesticides or treated seeds we are going natural. This promotes healthy eating and helps redefine the value of our traditional crops,” said Rungwe.

With sustained support from GEF-7 and its partners, Masvingo’s rural communities are emerging as exemplars of sustainable development. The integration of value addition, renewable energy, and climate-smart agricultural practices is not only enhancing livelihoods but also contributing to the restoration of degraded landscapes across the province.

Masuka urges farmers to adopt climate-resilient agriculture amid climate change

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Masuka urges farmers to adopt climate-resilient agriculture amid climate change

By Virginia Njovo

With the 2025–2026 farming season on the horizon, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Jongwe Masuka, has called on farmers to embrace climate-proof agricultural practices. He stressed that Zimbabwe and the wider region are among the areas most severely impacted by climate change.

Minister Masuka spoke to TellZim News on the sidelines of the Zimbabwe Farmers’ Union (ZFU) 85th Annual Congress, held at Urban Lifestyles on October 24, 2025. He outlined several climate-adaptive techniques, such as Pfumvudza and water harvesting, as essential for building resilience.

“I encourage all farmers to practice climate-proof agriculture. Zimbabwe is heavily impacted by climate change, and we must adapt positively, especially since our economy is agro-based.

“There are several ways to implement climate-proof agriculture, such as Pfumvudza/Intwasa, which is currently practiced by the majority of farmers in Zimbabwe. Water harvesting is also an effective method of adapting to climate change, as its effects on agriculture are severe,” said Dr. Masuka.

The Minister also advised farmers to grow crops suited to their specific agro-ecological regions, using Masvingo as an example where small grains are better adapted than maize due to low and erratic rainfall.

“Masvingo has a high percentage of water resources in Zimbabwe, yet it often experiences droughts. This is mainly due to farmers insisting on planting maize instead of small grains, which are better suited to the soil type and rainfall patterns,” he added.

ZFU Secretary General, Paul Zakariya, echoed the Minister’s message, emphasizing the need for agro-ecological matching and crop insurance to cushion farmers against climate shocks.

“As ZFU, we encourage farmers to select crops that are suitable for their environments, which will improve yields. We also urge farmers to take out insurance so that in the event of a drought, they can continue farming in the next season,” said Zakariya.

However, Chiredzi ZFU Chairperson Simbarashe Mudzingwa raised pressing concerns about payment delays and market access, issues that continue to affect farmers’ livelihoods.

“I am one of the farmers in Chiredzi, Masvingo. We face challenges with delayed payments from those we supply. Sometimes, input suppliers disappear after delivery, leaving us stranded. For example, we currently have sunflowers that are losing value,” said Mudzingwa.

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