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Sandon Academy throws a massive celebration for academic excellence

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Sandon Academy throws a massive celebration for academic excellence

By Virginia Njovo

Sandon Academy, one of the best privately owned schools in the province and beyond, recently held a vibrant celebration of excellence, which brought the school community together in a powerful display of achievement, pride, and motivation.

The event, which ran under the theme “Rising in Excellence Together,” served as a platform to honour students’ outstanding performance and recognize the dedication of educators, families, and school partners who continually support learners on their journey.

Hundreds of learners, parents, staff, and guardians gathered for a celebration at Sandon Academy’s Gutu Campus, as achievements in academics and co-curricular activities were celebrated with enthusiasm and gratitude.

The academy expressed sincere appreciation to teachers across all three of Its Campuses for their tireless guidance, which helps learners reach new heights.

At Gutu Campus, top perfomers including Nicole Mutyambizi who attained 10As with seven straight As and three As, Tinashe Mhangwa with 10 As with six straight As and 4 As, Arnold Watungwa who got eight As and three Bs as well as Michele Tsakatsa, who have eight As and one B were among well performing leaners.

Musabayana Shekinah and Chuma Clara were awarded the most improved candidates.At Melbourne Academy which is another Sandon Academy Campus in Chiredzi, Taurai Chigerwe was recognized for attaining 11 straight As, Madzangasi Shaun,Ndava Munyaradzi and Muchatukwa Kimberly were also awarded for attaining greater results.

In keeping with its commitment to nurturing talent and fostering strong values, Sandon Academy reaffirmed its mission to develop confident, disciplined, and future-ready learners.

Through recognition and encouragement, of teachers, the academy aims to inspire students to keep setting ambitious goals and to strive for excellence in all they do.

Teachers who had examination classes for 2025 were awarded US$70 per A and US$50 for attaining a B which is the most factor why they continue having high colours when it comes to academics.

At Sandon Academy, teachers only identified by their surnames namely Mr Firomumwe,Mrs Gupo, Mr Mpofu, Mr Muvoti, Mr Wuriga, Mr Benhura, Mr Makonese, Mr Mushayavanhu and Mrs Mushayavanhu were among teachers who were recognized for better results.At Melbourne Campus teachers namely,Masundise, Mbiri,Nhidza,Shayanowako,Makuvara,Chikuriri,Mazorodze,Mutoworera and Ndafa were among the recognized teachers who contributed towards excellence.

Through the availability and adaptation of technology, Sandon Academy continues dedication to delivering quality education.

Gutu Central Member of Parliament, Winston Chitando, who was the guest of honour, applauded Sandon Academy for its continuous excellence.

“Sandon Academy, under the visionary leadership of Honourable Matuke, is fulfilling this mandate with distinction.

The mission to provide person-centred holistic education that caters to each learner’s unique needs is commendable and worthy of emulation,” said Chitando.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lovemore Matuke, urged learners and staff to use time effectively to maintain quality education at the institution.

He noted that poor time management leads to serious consequences, including academic failure “As learners, time is very important. You need to know what to do at what time in an intelligent way.

If you do that, you will definitely achieve what you want.

Teachers, too, should observe the value of time,” said Matuke.He further stated that Sandon is committed to both curricular and extra-curricular activities.

“As a school and as a nation, we are called to cultivate not only minds but also character. Our mandate is not simply to prepare learners for examinations, but to prepare them for life. In these uncertain times, our country’s greatest security lies in a generation that is informed, ethical, confident, and driven by a spirit of service.“Let us therefore invest in excellence, support innovative education, and elevate those who will, in time, lead not only this country but the world,” said Matuke.

Matuke calls for learners to use time efficiently for quality results at Sandon

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Matuke calls for learners to use time efficiently for quality results at Sandon

By Virginia NjovoGUTU – Sandon Academy Founder and Chief Executive Officer Lovemore Matuke has urged learners to use time efficiently to maintain quality education, warning that poor time management leads to serious consequences including academic failure.Matuke, whois Gutu senator and Minister of state security, made the call during the recently held Speech and Prize-Giving Day at Sandon Academy Gutu Campus, which ran under the theme “Rising in Excellence Together,” where he also addressed teachers on the value of time”As learners, time is very important. You need to know what to do at what time in an intelligent way. If you do that, you will definitely achieve what you want. Teachers, too, should observe the value of time,” Matuke said.He further stated that Sandon is committed to both curricular and extracurricular activities.”As a school and as a nation, we are called to cultivate not only minds but also character. Our mandate is not simply to prepare learners for examinations, but to prepare them for life. In these uncertain times, our country’s greatest security lies in a generation that is informed, ethical, confident, and driven by a spirit of service,” he added.”Let us therefore invest in excellence, support innovative education, and elevate those who will, in time, lead not only this country but the world,” said Matuke.Gutu Central Member of Parliament, Winston Chitando, who was the guest of honour, applauded Sandon Academy for its continuous excellence.”Sandon Academy, under the visionary leadership of Honourable Matuke, is fulfilling this mandate with distinction. The mission to provide person-centred, holistic education that caters to each learner’s unique needs is commendable and worthy of emulation,” Chitando said.”I am particularly impressed by the institution’s commitment to core values godliness, empathy, trustworthiness, integrity, and excellence – the pillars upon which a prosperous and just society is built,” he added.Chitando encouraged learners to work hard to excel in the journey of life.”To the learners receiving awards today, congratulations. You are shining stars of this moment, and your hard work and dedication have brought you here. However, let today be the beginning of a greater journey. The world you are stepping into demands not only brilliance, but also responsibility, adaptability, and purpose. Use your knowledge wisely,” said Chitando.Chitando also praised the collective efforts towards excellence between teachers, management, and staff.”To the educators, support staff, and learners, I want to applaud your tireless efforts. You are the unsung heroes who shape the intellect and character of the future leaders. Your influence goes far beyond the classroom – it ripples into homes, communities, and nations,” said Chitando.Sandon Academy, which was started about ten years ago, now has three campuses – Gutu, Chiredzi, and Beatrice – where academic excellence is promoted across Masvingo Province and Zimbabwe at large. All campuses have both junior and high school students, and they currently have approximately 2,000 learners.At Sandon Academy, teachers and staff are well remunerated and work with set targets that motivate them to achieve the best results.

NetOne, Heal Us Zimbabwe launch 23-day walkathon to combat drug crisis

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NetOne, Heal Us Zimbabwe launch 23-day walkathon to combat drug crisis

By Staff ReporterBEITBRIDGE – NetOne, Zimbabwe’s state-owned mobile network operator, has partnered with grassroots organization Heal Us Zimbabwe to launch a 23-day walkathon from Beitbridge to Harare, in a campaign to combat the escalating drug and substance abuse crisis among young Zimbabweans.The walkathon, which runs from June 27 to July 19, 2026, under the banner “Together We Rise, United We Heal,” covers more than 500 kilometres from the country’s southern border to the capital. On Day 4 of the journey, walkers have been met with water, encouragement, and support from strangers along the route, mirroring the recovery process where no one overcomes addiction alone.The partnership comes as drug use among young Zimbabweans surged from 43 percent in 2017 to over 57 percent by 2019, according to available statistics. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the crisis a national emergency.Speaking ahead of the Beitbridge launch, NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani said the fight against drug and substance abuse cannot be won in isolation.”We are running towards a future where our youth reject substance abuse. As NetOne, we are honoured to play a central role in this revolution. But we cannot do it alone. Heal Us Zimbabwe brings the lived experience, the frontline truth, and the human face of recovery. That is why this partnership matters,” said Mushanawani.He said NetOne believes connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future.”NetOne believes that connectivity is not only about technology but also about connecting people to opportunities, hope and a better future. Heal Us Zimbabwe connects us to the ground reality. “They tell us what works, what hurts, and what gives young people a reason to choose life. Our job is to amplify that voice across our entire network- voice, data, mobile money, and internet services,” said Eng Mushanawani.He said the partnership is linking anti-drug efforts to Zimbabwe’s broader Vision 2030 development goals.”A productive, healthy youth population is critical if Zimbabwe is to achieve its economic targets. This partnership is not just about saving lives today—it is about securing the nation’s future,” he said.The campaign’s closing message urges young people to take control of their futures: “Your future is in your hands. Say No to Drugs. Say Yes to Life”.Founder of Heal Us Zimbabwe, Columbus Tapiwa Mushore, is a former addict who rebuilt his life. He now dedicates his organization to reaching young people struggling with addiction.The partnership has extended beyond digital messaging to on-the-ground interventions, taking the campaign into schools, community halls, and youth centres, where face-to-face dialogues break down the stigma of addiction and offer pathways to rehabilitation. Counselling sessions, testimonies from former addicts, and community engagements accompany each day’s march.

Budula Festival returns with expanded vision, trans boundary participation

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Budula Festival returns with expanded vision, trans boundary participation

By Beatific GumbwandaThe second edition of the Budula Festival is set to make a bold statement when it unfolds within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA) corridor, in Mhlanguleni, expanding far beyond its inaugural roots to celebrate the full tapestry of Tsonga/Shangaan heritage while deepening community ownership of conservation on the 27th of June 2026.Organised within the GLTFCA framework, the festival has quickly established itself as more than a cultural gathering. The event organiser Herbert Pikhela said purpose of the festival ran deeper than entertainment.“This event serves as a transboundary community-driven platform within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, connecting the diverse communities and stakeholders from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique to exchange knowledge, best practices, and collaborative livelihoods and conservation efforts. It is for communities living in or adjacent to protected areas in the GLTFCA,” said Pikhela Last year’s inaugural edition centred largely on the iconic Xibelani dance. This year, the festival has grown considerably in scope. Pikhela explained that while the Xibelani remains the festival’s cultural anchor, the programme now encompasses a much wider embrace of VaTsonga identity.“The Xibelani dance remains the Budula Festival brand and remains a unit of the GLTFCA cultural heritage,” he said. “We are growing the festival to represent the key aspects of our culture, the cuisines, agriculture, conservation, as well as safeguarding the indigenous knowledge which facilitated a symbiotic relationship between the local communities and natural resources.”To entrench the festival’s legacy among younger generations, schools have been incorporated into key programme areas, including the Xibelani showcase itself.A defining thread running through this year’s programme is the central role of women in VaTsonga society. The choice of activities, Xibelani dance, Lowveld drums, food and cookery demonstrations, and cultural exhibitions, is deliberately deliberate in this regard.“Women play a critical role in the VaTsonga society. They are central to the welfare of the home and the safeguarding of critical aspects of the VaTsonga cultural heritage.“The Xibelani dance celebrates the resilience of the VaTsonga women in the face of hardships, human-wildlife conflict, climate change, domestic violence, farming, family, and livestock care after men have emigrated to work locally and abroad. The dance, the drums, the food remind us of the role of women in the sustainable development of the GLTFCA communities. We are celebrating the resilient Tsonga woman,” added Pikhela. There will also be food demonstrations and exhibitions, which will run concurrently with other programme activities, giving participants diverse engagement choices throughout the day.Last year’s edition was graced by Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority Director General Professor Edson Gandiwa as guest of honour. This year, the festival is set to attract an even more prominent official presence.Pikhela said the ministers responsible for Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Environment, Climate and Wildlife, as well as the Masvingo State Minister for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, have been proposed as keynote speakers.“Aligned with the national whole-of-government approach, their involvement highlights their critical roles in advancing community conservation within the GLTFCA framework. This integrated approach emphasises inclusive growth, sustainable development, and ecological resilience as key pillars of Zimbabwe’s developmental agenda,” said Pikhela.Pikhela also highlighted that Budula’s trans boundary identity, it draws its name from Mahlanga, the confluence of rivers that bind Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa at their shared borders. This year, that symbolism is matched by tangible cross-border participation.“Chief Makuleke and Mahonisi from South Africa have confirmed their participation. Together, they will be leading a team of 15 to Zimbabwe. Details from the Mozambique side were still being finalised.Among the groups showing the most notable growth in participation from last year are traditional leadership, community members, government departments and ministries, schools, and exhibitors, a sign that the festival’s grassroots appeal is widening.The Budula Festival carries a strategic conservation agenda. By bringing together communities, governments, traditional leaders, conservation organisations, private sector players, and the diplomatic community, the festival functions as an informal but powerful platform for advancing community buy-in for trans frontier conservation.“Community connectivity and exchange of knowledge and conservation best practices,” Pikhela said, summarising what the festival contributes to the GLTFCA’s broader goals.This year’s edition also places emphasis on community resilience through diversified livelihoods, indigenous food processing, and sustainable agricultural practices, themes that connect directly to the practical realities facing communities living on the edges of protected areas.While this year’s edition remains a single-day event, Pikhela confirmed that organisers are already planning a significant expansion.“The 2027 edition will revert to four days, two full festival days and two travelling days,” he said.This signals confidence in the festival’s growth trajectory and its ambition to become a fixture on Zimbabwe’s cultural and conservation calendar

Disabled Zimbabweans demand quota in parliament, senate, local authorities

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Disabled Zimbabweans demand quota in parliament, senate, local authorities

By Staff Reporter

MASVINGO – Persons with disabilities have made a bold call for a quota system in all arms of government, including local authorities, Parliament, and the Senate, saying their voices and representation remain marginalised in decision-making structures.

The demand was made during the official opening of the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo held at Mucheke Open Grounds on Friday, June 26, 2026.

The event was presided over by Vice President Kembo Mohadi, who stood in for President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Speaking at the event, the Special Advisor on Disability Issues in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Rossy Mpofu, called on the President to take advantage of the Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 (CAB3), which, among other things, seeks to allow the President to nominate 10 senators of his choice, and ensure that 50 percent of those appointees come from the disabled constituency.

“Our President, people with disabilities are appealing for a quota in the House of Assembly, a quota for youth, women. In the Senate, the 10 that would be appointed by the President, we need 50 percent,” said Mpofu.

She also appealed to the President for 10 vehicles to be allocated to the 10 provincial chairpersons for the disabled in the 10 provinces. She said that because of their disability, it was difficult for them to mobilise their people for meetings and for those with disabilities to travel and meet their leaders.

The vehicles, she said, would allow the chairpersons to travel to rural areas and other corners of the province to engage their members.

Senator Anna Shiri, who represents persons with disabilities, echoed the same sentiments, saying they wanted a person with disability in the youth quota and more representation in the Senate through the CAB3.

“The Senators who are going to be appointed by the President, I am confident that the President, fulfilling his mantra of leaving no one behind, all those with expertise will get into the Senate to add more expertise to develop our country,” said Shiri.

She also urged persons with disabilities to pursue education, own homes, marry, and live full lives like any other citizen.

Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira said Masvingo was honoured to host the expo and stressed that inclusion of persons with disabilities was no longer an issue of charity but a crucial pillar for development.

“We are honoured to host this important national event in Masvingo Province, a province that remains committed to inclusive and people-centred development. This principle compels us to ensure that persons with disabilities are fully included in development processes and are afforded equal opportunities to participate in and benefit from socio-economic transformation. This year’s theme, ‘Embracing Disability Inclusion in all Sectors,’ is a masterstroke for national prosperity and economic development, which calls us to shift our collective mindset. Disability inclusion is no longer just a matter of charity or social welfare; it is a fundamental pillar of robust national economies and social growth,” said Chadzamira.

In his address, Vice President Kembo Mohadi said people with disabilities were supposed to be included in decision-making processes, saying nothing meaningful about them could be achieved without their full participation.

“Most importantly, persons with disabilities must be active participants and leaders in decisions that affect their lives. Their voices, experiences, and aspirations must inform policy design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Nothing about persons with disabilities should be decided without their meaningful participation,” said Mohadi.

He said the Second Republic remained unwavering in its commitment to building an inclusive, prosperous, and resilient Zimbabwe.

“Through Vision 2030, we seek to create a nation where every citizen has opportunities for self-actualisation, economic empowerment, and social advancement. Through NDS2, we are laying the foundations for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Through our alignment with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, we are contributing to the broader aspirations of Africa and the global community,” said Mohadi.

Mnangagwa dumps National Disability expo for Matemadanda burial

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Mnangagwa dumps National Disability expo for Matemadanda burial

… Expo turns into Zanu PF rally

By Staff Reporter

MASVINGO – What was supposed to be a national event celebrating disability inclusion was turned into a Zanu PF campaign rally on Friday, as the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo at Mucheke Open Grounds was hijacked by ruling party slogans, songs, and symbolism, with the entire programme resembling a party gathering rather than a development platform.

Although Zanu PF regalia was limited, the atmosphere was unmistakably political, with every aspect of the event resembling a party rally.

Known Zanu PF members acted as ushers, directing people where to sit and managing the crowd, while chicken slices and drinks were distributed at the entrance by party youths.

The programme was conducted amidst Zanu PF songs performed by Chief Shumba, with chants of “2030” and “CAB 3” dominating the proceedings.The expo, which was supposed to be presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, was instead officiated by a frail-looking Vice President Kembo Mohadi, who delivered the President’s speech in a voice so low that many in attendance could hardly hear what he was saying.

Mnangagwa was forced to skip the event to preside over the burial of national hero Victor Matemadanda at the National Heroes Acre in Harare. Matemadanda, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Mozambique and Eswatini, was declared a national hero after his death last week.

Masvingo People with Disabilities Chairperson Charles Mugwamba led the political chants, shouting “VaMnangagwa vanenge vachingotonga” (Mnangagwa will continue to rule) and rallying support for CAB 3.

Zanu PF Provincial Chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa was given the closing remarks, a clear indication that the event had been turned into a party programme.

Despite the political overtone, Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira used the platform to highlight development milestones achieved in the province under the Second Republic.

He said through Rural District Councils, the province has integrated accessibility audits into the construction of over 200 completed devolution projects, ensuring newly built clinics, maternal wards, and primary schools feature ramps and wider access points.

He also said the province had established specialized agricultural Village Business Units directly at disability institutions, including Jairos Jiri Centre, Copota School for the Blind, Henry Murray School, and Mukume School in Mwenezi.

These solar-powered, commercially structured units enable persons with disabilities to engage in high-yield farming and value addition.

“As a nation, we are guided by Vision 2030, as envisioned by you, Your Excellency. As Masvingo Province, we are contributing towards this national vision through our aspiration of attaining a USD$8 billion provincial economy by 2030. Achieving these development milestones requires the participation of every citizen, including persons with disabilities. Inclusive development is therefore not only a social imperative but also an economic necessity,” said Chadzamira.

He said he was encouraged by the participation of exhibitors from various sectors showcasing technologies, products, services and innovations that promote accessibility, independence, productivity and inclusion.

“This Expo provides an invaluable platform for learning, networking, sharing experiences and strengthening partnerships. I encourage all participants to engage actively, exchange ideas and identify practical interventions that will accelerate disability inclusion across all sectors of government and society,” he added.

Despite the political theatrics, persons with disabilities used the platform to make their demands known. Special Advisor on Disability Issues in the Office of the President and Cabinet Rossy Mpofu called on the President to ensure that 50 percent of the 10 senators to be appointed under CAB 3 come from the disabled constituency.

Senator Anna Shiri, who represents persons with disabilities, echoed the same sentiments, expressing confidence that the President, “fulfilling his mantra of leaving no one behind,” would ensure that persons with disabilities are included in the Senate through CAB 3.

“The Senators who are going to be appointed by the President, I am confident that the President, fulfilling his mantra of leaving no one behind, all those with expertise will get into Senate to add more expertise to develop our country,” said Shiri.

In his address delivered on behalf of the President, Mohadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to disability inclusion, describing it as “a constitutional imperative, a developmental necessity and a human rights obligation”.

He announced a Presidential Empowerment Package comprising 50 goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme, 60 pigs, residential stands, agricultural land, and farming and mining equipment to be distributed to persons with disabilities across all ten provinces.

“The mantra, ‘Disability is Not Inability,’ must transcend rhetoric and become a lived reality in every sector of our society,” read the speech. “Nothing about persons with disabilities should be decided without their meaningful participation,” said Mohadi.

The expo, which ran from June 24 to 26 under the theme “Embracing Disability Inclusion in All Sectors: A Masterstroke for National Prosperity and Economic Development,” brought together over 500 exhibitors, development partners, and delegates from across Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries.

Gutu dominates inaugural NICAZ Provincial Games

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Gutu dominates inaugural NICAZ Provincial Games

By Tadiwa Shunje
MASVINGO – The National Independent Colleges Association in Zimbabwe (NICAZ)
successfully hosted its inaugural provincial ball games in Gutu, drawing 68 teams from across
Masvingo Province’s six districts, with Gutu District emerging as the top performer by winning
at least five titles at the event held at Fambisai Christian Academy on June 19, 2026.
The games brought together independent colleges from across Masvingo Province, with six
districts, Masvingo, Bikita, Chivi, Zaka, Gutu and Chiredzi represented, except for Mwenezi.
Teams competed in 13 sporting codes, including soccer, girls’ soccer, netball, volleyball,
basketball, handball, and baseball, across three age groups: Under15, Under17, and Under20.
NICAZ Masvingo Provincial Chairperson and Zaka’s Pecom Academy Director Sarah Munemo
said the tournament was successfully held and attracted strong participation from schools across
the province.
She said 68 teams from 32 colleges took part in the competition, showcasing sporting talent and
competing for qualification to the national finals.
“The provincial games were successfully held in Gutu with participation from 32 colleges and 68
teams competing in different sporting disciplines. The games went well, and we are now busy
preparing for the national games as a province,” said Munemo.
Gutu’s dominance was spearheaded by hosts Fambisai Christian Academy, which won the
Under17 and Under20 netball titles as well as the boys’ and girls’ Under17 volleyball
competitions. Royal Priest Wood added to the district’s success by winning the Under15 netball
title.
Other notable performers included Perseverance College, also from Gutu, which won the boys’
and girls’ Under17 basketball titles as well as the Under16 and Under20 soccer divisions.

Masvingo Urban secured victories in boys’ handball and both the boys’ and girls’ Under17 soccer
categories, while Chivi claimed the girls’ handball title.
Munemo said the provincial champions would now represent Masvingo Province at the NICAZ
National Games in Harare.
“The qualifiers will represent Masvingo Province at the NICAZ National Games on July 8 in
Harare and preparations for the national tourney are currently underway,” she said.
The games marked a significant milestone for NICAZ, which was formed after independent
colleges broke away from NASH.
Munemo said the event was not only about competition but also about participation and
discipline and thanked the directors for the support they gave to the colleges despite financial
constraints.
“We are not looking at the numbers, but we are looking at the participation of those various
colleges from the districts. I want to thank the directors, financial resources were constrained, but
they managed to pull the ends together and make the day successful,” she said.
She also praised the high level of discipline displayed throughout the tournament, saying it was
all excitement and no form of violence was recorded.
“We never had an incident of violence. We never had any disruption. What we really noticed
was the excitement among the students, they were so excited and happy, and we hope to
maintain the same in all our future events,” Munemo said.
Munemo thanked college directors for their support despite financial constraints.
“Financial resources were constrained, but they managed to pull the ends together and make the
day successful,” she said.
She noted that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education had recommended that colleges
be divided into five clusters under NICAZ for the coordination of sports.

“Right now, as we speak, we are busy putting every end into order. Districts, provincials will be
talking of district,” she said.
The quality of competition, she said, was impressive and the association plans to grow the event
next year by inviting stakeholders and talent scouts.
“We want to go abroad as districts. Right now, we are going to the Ministry of Primary and
Secondary Education, the provincial office, the districts. We are going to grow bigger and better
with time. Next year, it will be a bigger event,” Munemo said.
Zaka was represented by Pecom Academy and Victorious College while Chiredzi was
represented by Verengai Academy and Rufaro Academy.
Gutu was represented by Royal Academy, Living Pool College, Fambisayi Academy, and
Perseverance College.
Masvingo Urban was represented by Berylyn Academy, Southern City Academy, Wisedel
Academy, Destinygate Academy, Vision Academy, Evalasting academy, and Vulturesvale
Academy.
Chivi was represented by Good Hope, Marvelous, OakWood Academy, Blessed Academy, and
Good Shepherd College.

Masvingo youths demand safe abortion access, free sanitary pads, contraceptives

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Masvingo youths demand safe abortion access, free sanitary pads, contraceptives

By Tadiwa Shunje
MASVINGO – Youths have called for increased access to safe abortion services, free sanitary
pads, and easier access to emergency contraceptives, arguing that restrictive laws and high costs
are contributing to cases of baby dumping, unsafe abortions, and teenage pregnancies among
young people.
The calls were made during a Parliamentary Youth Caucus dialogue held at Mucheke Hall on
June 23, 2026, under the SADC-PF Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), HIV and
AIDS and Governance Project.
The event brought together students, youth leaders, civil society organisations and local
authorities to discuss challenges affecting adolescents and young people.
Speaking at the event, youths said challenges affecting young people and urged policymakers to
consider reforms to expand access to reproductive health services.
One of the participants, Acknowledge Mawere from Bikita, said women and girls seeking
abortions should not be criminalized, adding that the lack of safe and legal options was forcing
some to resort to unsafe practices or abandon newborn babies.
He cited a recent case in Bikita District, Chikuku area, where a baby was reportedly dumped,
saying such incidents highlight the need for a review of abortion laws.
“Just recently, there was a case in Chikuku, Bikita, where a baby was found abandoned in a
toilet. These are the realities we are facing. Some may argue that abortion is murder, but sex is
also considered a sin, just as abortion is. If a person does not want a pregnancy, they should be
allowed to terminate it because no sin is greater than the other.
“Those who want to abort should be free to do so, and those who don’t want to should not.
People often resort to unsafe abortions because they don’t have access to these services. In
contrast, others carry unwanted pregnancies to term and end up abandoning babies out of fear,”
said Mawere.
Another participant, Fadzai Makuwere, said while abortion may not be acceptable to some, the
reality of young people’s sexual activity meant safe abortion access should be considered.
“It may seem unacceptable to some people, but we are living in a generation where many young
people are already sexually active. When an unwanted pregnancy occurs, they should be able to
go to a hospital and access safe abortion services because we have lost many young lives through
unsafe abortions.
“Unwanted pregnancies resulting from mistakes should be terminated safely if the individual
chooses to do so. We often tell young people to abstain from sex, but the reality is that
abstinence is not always effective. As parents, we failed it, so it’s unrealistic to expect young
people to achieve what we ourselves have struggled to achieve,” said Makuwere.

Other speakers also called for improved access to condoms and emergency contraceptives,
saying contraceptives should be freely available in communities and not only at institutions and
beer halls.
One youth, Bridget Marima, called for the distribution of free sanitary pads, particularly in
remote areas where some girls struggle to afford menstrual hygiene products, saying that some
girls were forced to use pieces of cloth during menstruation due to a lack of sanitary wear.
“My wish is that young girls from rural areas have access to free sanitary pads. Condoms are
given free, but you have to buy sanitary wear, which then causes children to use pieces of
clothes. These practices are said to be other causes of cervical cancer, all because they don’t have
money to buy those pads,” said Marima.
One of the panelists, and Glenview South MP, Tsitsi Tawomhera commented on the issue,
saying while pads and condoms cannot be placed in the same category because sex is a choice
while menstruation is natural, she acknowledged the point and said government should distribute
pads.
“We noticed that many people complain about the issue of pads and condoms, saying condoms
are given free whereas you have to buy pads. These two things can’t be placed in the same
category because sex is something you decide to do while menstruation is by nature. But I have
taken the point that the government should distribute pads because it’s something we as women
did not choose. We will represent the issue,” said Tawomhera.
Another participant from Mucheke Vocational Centre called for easier access to emergency
contraceptives, commonly known as morning-after pills, as part of efforts to reduce teenage
pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
“We need morning-after pills to be free in schools just like condoms. We only have access to
condoms, but what about morning-after pills? We don’t have that US$3 to buy morning-after
pills, which may end up causing unwanted pregnancies. So let those pills be offered just like
condoms in schools,” said the participant.
In terms of condoms, youths called for distribution of condoms everywhere, even in taxis, not
only in schools or hospitals.
Participants also urged the government to prioritise youth-friendly reproductive health services
and ensure that young people have access to accurate information on family planning and
contraceptive options.
My Age Africa, an organization that has been actively advocating for policy reforms, previously
called for the need to address misconceptions around safe abortion laws and ensure young
women understand family planning and birth control.
My Age Africa also highlighted that young people who seek condoms are very few compared to
those who seek morning-after pills, indicating a need for more education so that young people
can make informed choices.

3 dead, 5 injured in Mutare-Masvingo highway crash

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3 dead, 5 injured in Mutare-Masvingo highway crash

By Yvonne Mangani

MASVINGO – Three people died on the spot, and five others were injured when a Toyota Runx failed to yield and was hit by an oncoming Toyota Granvia at the 200km peg along the Mutare-Masvingo Highway on Friday, June 21, at around 4:10 pm.

Police said the accident occurred when Shepherd Kachasi (27), who was driving the Runx with three passengers on board, attempted to turn right in front of oncoming traffic. Prosper Rusike (71) was driving the Granvia with four passengers towards Masvingo when the collision happened. The Granvia struck the Runx on the rear passenger side.

Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed that all three passengers in the Runx died instantly. The deceased have been identified as Lilian Muzvanyi (39), Isaiah Svikiro (46), and one other passenger whose identity is yet to be established.

All five injured victims, including the Granvia driver who was in a serious condition, were taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for treatment.

Inspector Dehwa urged motorists to exercise caution and consider other road users, especially when turning across busy highways.

The bodies of the deceased were taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examinations and the identification of the third victim.

Bikita Minerals doubles school nutrition drive, reaches 10,000 learners

TellZim News
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Bikita Minerals doubles school nutrition drive, reaches 10,000 learners

By Staff Reporter


Bikita Minerals has doubled its school nutrition programme, reaching nearly 10,000 learners
across 17 primary schools in Bikita District this year – up from about 5,000 in 2022, after
distributing 14,000 kilograms of fortified Maheu during the second term of 2026.
The mining company reaffirmed its commitment to community development, saying nutrition
was the foundation for learning.
In its statement, Bikita Minerals said the programme was part of its continued dedication to
supporting local education, improving student welfare, and delivering sustainable community
development.
What started in 2022 with support for about 5,000 learners has now doubled. Nearly 10,000
pupils are benefiting this year, with Hozvi Primary School added to the programme as the
company pushes its socio-economic footprint deeper into vulnerable communities.
School heads and local leaders say the results were showing up in attendance registers and in
children’s concentration. The programme also runs alongside the Government’s national school
feeding scheme, adding another layer of relief for households stretched thin.
Ward 12 Councillor Brighton Mushekwa welcomed the consistency of the support, saying the
development was making a difference in the community.
“This initiative is making a tangible difference in our communities. Proper nutrition is essential
for effective learning, and by supporting our schools, Bikita Minerals is investing in the future of
our children. We are grateful for the company’s consistency and willingness to partner with
communities in addressing real needs that affect learners every day,” said Mushekwa.
Bikita District Schools Inspector James Mahofa confirmed Bikita Minerals’ input, saying the
mine was complementing the government and ministry’s efforts by providing a wash-down to the
school feeding programme that is already in schools. He said the Maheu was also nutritious,
making it part of a needed balanced diet.
“Bikita Minerals is doing a great job there. They are complementing our efforts. The drink is
nutritious, and after eating a hot meal, learners won’t just drink water, they now have a wash
down of Maheu,” said Mahofa.
Bikita Minerals, known for lithium extraction in the district, says the Maheu drive reflects a core
belief: long-term progress starts with human capital. The company is now exploring ways to
scale the model further through partnerships in health, education, and infrastructure.

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